Manipuri Language Day celebrated in Imphal

IMPHAL — Commemoration inclusion of Manipuri language in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution on August 20, 1992, the 34th Manipuri Language Day was celebrated under the aegis of Manipuri Language Day State Level Celebration Committee in Imphal on August 20.

The event was organised by Art & Culture Department, in collaboration with the Directorate of Language Planning and Implementation,

Addressing the gathering, former Lok Sabha MP, Dr. Th Meinya Singh, emphasised on the richness and cultural significance of the Meiteilon language. He said Manipur, being home to diverse communities with different dialects, has always required a common language for communication and added that Meiteilon has played a vital role as lingua franca.

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Highlighting the importance of a comprehensive language policy, Dr. Meinya stressed that Manipur should frame a policy similar to other states.

In his presidential speech, former Union Minister of State Home Affairs, Prof. Meijinlung Kamson, who is the chairman of celebration committee, stated that the beauty and richness of Meiteilon is evident from the books and novels. He stressed on the importance of giving attention to culture and the Manipuri language as a lingua franca to bring unity among the different communities.

When one speaks the same language, there will be peace, love and unity, he said.

Speakers of the event Manipur University’s Prof. W Nabakumar Singh, retired professor of Anthropology at Manipur University, and Prof. Yashawanta Singh, retired professor of Linguistics at Manipur University, suggested the need to ponder on the deteriorating condition of language. They were of the view that culture and language are co-related.

Former minister of Art & Culture, Dr. M Nara Singh, along with members of the celebration committee comprising 17 organisations and invitees attended the programme.