State government conducting language mapping for development of ‘Kokborok’ language

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, January 16, 2025

The state government has initiated a process of language mapping as part of which the number of tribal students studying ‘Kokborok’ as the first language or mother tongue is assessed to further tone up the measures to develop and promote the language. This was stated in the state assembly by the chief minister Dr Manik Saha who also holds the portfolio of education. Replying to a ‘starred’ (meant for direct reply in the house) query from the MLA Biswajit Koloi, the chief minister said that the education department is trying to have a full profile of the ‘Kokborok’ studying students in the state and that is why the process of language mapping has been undertaken.

Providing statistical data the chief minister said that ‘Kokborok’ is currently being studied as the first language in 1163 schools at the primary level, in 133 schools at the senior basic level and , in 115 schools at classes-IX to X level and in 65 schools at the higher secondary level-that is in classes XI and XII as optional subject. He added that in the year 2024-2025 twenty more schools have introduced ‘Kokborok’ a medium of instruction from class I and the wing of minority languages under the education department printed text books in ‘Kokborok’ from class IX to XII.

Apart from this, the chief minister said that ‘Kokborok’ training courses and work-shops on regular basis are being organised by the minority language wing of the education department. “We are keen to ensure proper development of ‘Kokborok’ language and protect and preserve tribal language and culture” said Dr Saha. He added that an online course for learning ‘Kokborok’ language has been introduced for government employees and pensioners also.

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