YAI Foundation launched to promote children's literature
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 16 2025: With the aim to nurture young readers by making children's literature in Manipuri arid other local languages not only accessible but also a source of joy, inspiration and discovery, the YAI Foundation was launched at Manipur Press Club on Thursday.

The launch event was attended by Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2014 recipient Rajkumar Bhubonsana as special guest, along with YAI Foundation founder Aribam Abem, secretary Akoijam Kebisana, treasurer Oinam Julie and member Joyshree Usham.

Speaking on the occasion, Aribam Abem explained that Yai Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation striving to provide age-appropriate children's literature with diverse quality for children up to Grade 5 .

Confiding that the Foundation aims to inculcate the habit of reading among children in the country, especially Manipur, the founder stating that it will also be focusing on spreading awareness about importance of children's literature among teachers, parents, communities and government officials.

Highlighted the role of children's literature in early learning and development, she pointed out that children's literature is not just about fun, but also build language, thinking skills, emotions and social understanding.

Aben maintained that stories introduce children to new words and ideas, build empathy, and help them make sense of the world.

She also drew attention to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises foundational literacy and calls for high-quality, inclusive literature in Indian languages.

Rajkumar Bhubonsana also said that Yai Foundation is working to publish engaging books in Manipuri and other local languages for children up to Grade 5 to help children read in the language they dream in, and to plant the seeds of imagination early.

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