AR Public schools and Moirang College mark International Mother Language Day
Source: The Sangai Express

Ukhrul/Bishnupur, February 21 2026: In celebration of International Mother Language Day, a series of literary and cultural programmes were held across Manipur on February 21, underscoring the importance of protecting indigenous languages and fostering cultural pride among the youth.

In Ukhrul District, the Assam Rifles Public School Somsai and Assam Rifles Public School Shangshak organised engaging competitions to mark the occasion, according to a release issued by IGAR (South) .

At ARPS Somsai, a Song Competition was held with 30 students participating enthusiastically.

The event fostered pride in cultural identity and encouraged young learners to express themselves through music, highlighting the importance of safeguarding indigenous languages for future generations.

Simultaneously, ARPS Shangshak hosted Poem Writing and Debate Competitions, which drew active participation from 45 students.

Supported by the faculty and staff, the competitions showcased creativity and eloquence in native dialects and regional languages including Tangkhul and Manipuri.

The debates and poems reinforced the Significance of the mother tongue as a cornerstone of cultural identity and continuity, while also encouraging critical thinking and self-expression among the students.

Both programmes were attended by school staff and students, who appreciated the talent and confidence displayed by the participants.

Winners were felicitated with prizes and certificates in recognition of their creativity and commitment to preserving linguistic heritage.

Meanwhile, the International Mother Language Day was also celebrated today at Moirang College in Bishnupur district.

The event was jointly organized by the college's Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) and the Department of Manipuri.

The program featured a Students' Recitation Competition as its central activity, followed by a prize distribution ceremony.

The keynote address on the 2026 International Mother Language Day theme was delivered by Moirangthem Sanjeeta Devi, Assistant Professor, Department of Manipuri, who served as the resource person for the occasion.

In the recitation competition, which celebrated Manipuri patriotism and the mother language, Philem Aris of BSc 4th Semester secured the first position.

Juniffer Moirangthem of BA 7th Semester and Khoyangbam Nandani Devi of BA 6th Semester were awarded the second and third positions, respectively.

The prize distribution function was graced by Dr Raheijuddin Sheikh, Principal of the college, as the chief guest.

Dr Ph Raju Singh, IQAC Coordinator, presided over the function, while S Deven Singh, Associate Professor of Physics, attended as the guest of honour.

Dr Moirangthem Rajesh Singh, Head of the Department of Manipuri, served as the overall coordinator for the event and also spoke on the IMLD 2026 theme.

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