Language Day
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 21 2015 :
As observed elsewhere across the world, the International Mother Language Day was observed in different parts of the State today.
One such observation was held at MDU Hall under the aegis of the Sahitya Thoupang Lup, Imphal and the Mother Language Lovers of the World, Manipur Chapter, India.
Speaker Th Lokeshwar, language activist Leihaothabam Saratchandra and the Mother Language Lovers of the World, Manipur Chapter president Prof Chungkham Yashbanta attended the function as chief guest, guest of honour and president respectively.
Speaking at the gathering, Th Lokeshwar expressed his keen desire for scholars of Manipur promote Manipuri language and literature.
As a part of the function , Sui Generis Mother Language Award 2015 was handed over to Okram Churamani.
The Tribal Endangered Languages Promotion Board (TELPB) and the Observation Committee on UNESCO 16th International Mother Language Day also observed the International Mother Language Day at Manipur Press Club.
Ministry of Home Affairs Advisor (Internal Security) Dr Manoranjan Khuman, former Head, Gynaecology Department RIMS Dr Ch Manglem, Ukhrul ADC Member Fillson Y Lungher, UCM president Y Nabachandra and MOBED Asstt Project Officer Alam Azad attended the function as presidium members.
In the course of the function, Prof R Subhakrishna Memorial Journalist Fellowship 2015-16 was conferred to Naharolgi Thoudang Chief Reporter N Nimolchand whereas the Prof Subhakrishna Neo-Linguist Award 2015-16 was conferred to Alam Azad.
Speaking at the gathering, Dr Manoranjan Khuman said that language and identity of a Nation are always complementary and can never be separated.
There is no need to borrow words from other communities when the same words are there in Manipuri language.
He underscored the importance of developing and promoting all the languages and dialects spoken in Manipur.
At the end of the function, a book titled "Voice of the Endangered Languages" co-authored by Dr Th Chandramani, Md Alam Azad and Fillson Y Lungher was released.