International Mother Language Day observed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 21 2016 : As in the rest of the world, the International Mother Language Day was observed at Hailey School, Soibam Leikai under the aegis of the Directorate of Language Planning and Implementation.

Debating and essay writing competitions on the topic 'Language is life' and 'Mother language is not the superior language' were held as part of the observation.

Directorate of Language Planning and Implementation Director Kh Raghumani graced the observance as chief guest.

All Manipur Recognised Private Schools Association secretary Joy Khuman and Directorate of Language Planning and Implementation Joint Director Dr L Mahabir also attended the observation.

The International Mother Language Day was also observed with 'quality educa- tion' as the theme at Arapti Heining Makhong with the inauguration of a library block by Youth Development Pioneer Organisation and Patrio- tic Writers Forum (PAWF) .

International Mother Language Day observed

International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in November 1999, stated OC Meira while delivering his speech on the topic "Malemgee Meeyamna Mamalolbu Ngak Senbagi Mathou Tarakpa" at the observation.

The day has been observed every year since February 2000 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism.

The date represents the day in 1952 when students demonstrating for recognition of the language 'Bangla', as one of the two National languages of the then Pakistan, were shot and killed by police in Dhaka, the capital of what is now Bangladesh, he added.

Language is the most powerful instrument in preserving and developing the tangible and intangible heritage, he stated.

All moves to promote the dissemination of mother tongues will serve not only to encourage linguistic diversity and multilingual education but also to develop fuller awareness of linguistic and cultural traditions throughout the world and to inspire solidarity based on understanding, tolerance and dialogue.

He urged the people to use native and indigenous languages.

Wife of MLA, Keirao Assembly Constituency Karam Sandhyarani, president of PAWF Raghu Leishangthem, president of Urup Arapti Dev, Co-ordinating Committee Thongram Parijat, Coucilor, Lilong Thoubal Municipal Council Wahengbam Meenakumari, Deputy Protocol Officer Banti Konthoujam and Principal of IRE Group of Institution, Wangjing Narengbam Rajivkumar graced as presidium member of the observation.

A poetry recitation was also held as part of the function.