New Delhi, December 23 2008: Arambam Ongbi Memchoubi's poetry Idu Ningthou in Manipuri language has been among the most outstanding twenty one books of literary merit selected for Sahitya Akademi Awards 2008 .

Rita Chaudhury's novel Deou Langkhui in Assamese and Bidyasagar Narzary's novel Brigwsrini Thungri in Bodo were also selected for the Award.

Sources from the Sahitya Akademi here said that out of the 21 books selected for the awards of 2008; seven were novel, six poetry, five short stories, two criticisms and one essay.

Every year since its inception in 1954, the Sahitya Akademi Awards are given to the most outstanding books of literary merit published in any of the major Indian languages recognized by the Akademi.

The award carries a cash component of Rs 50,000/and a plaque.

The award is meant to recognize and promote excellence in Indian writing and expand the very definition of Indian literature by acknowledging new trends and movements.

These selected books are reflection of current tastes and contribute to the formation of Indian sensibilities.

Manipuri language opened its account of Sahitya Akademi award in the year 1973 with the book Imphal Amasung Magi Ishing Nungshitki Phibam (Imphal and its climatic condition), a novel written by Pacha Meitei.

Since then, Manipuri writers have been receiving Sahitya Akademi Awards every year except the years 1975 and 1980.So far, 33 literary books �� 14 short stories, 9 poetries, six novels, three plays and one travelogue in Manipuri had been awarded the Sahitya Akademi Awards.

Idu Ningthou is the 34th literary book to receive the prestigious national award.

Though there are plenty of Manipuri books on literary criticism, none of the Manipuri writers has so far received the national award.

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