ITANAGAR, Jan 19: Stating that UNESCO has listed 26 languages of Arunachal Pradesh as endangered, Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday said that the State Government was taking several measures for preservation of the tribal languages.
For development of local languages, funds have been earmarked in the budget and steps were being taken to introduce local languages in schools, informed Khandu while addressing the 11th Galo Baane Keba – the highest community gathering of the Galo tribe – organized by Galo Welfare Society (GWS) at Basar in Lepa Rada district.
Underlining the importance of culture and tradition, the Chief Minister emphasised on preservation of languages, which reflect the essence of any culture.
He appreciated the contribution of a linguist from the University of Sydney, Mark William Post, towards the preservation of Galo language. He thanked William for bringing out a Galo dictionary.
“Happy to hear linguist Mark William Post from @Sydney_Uni speak in Galo language today at 11th Baane Keba at Basar. Mr Mark has contributed immensely towards the development of Galo language and has developed a dictionary and grammar. My thanks to him!”, Khandu stated in a tweet.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister appreciated this year’s theme of Baane Keba, which is aimed at women empowerment, environment enrichment and youth development, besides bringing social reforms in the Galo society.
Further appreciating the contribution of Galo community in all spheres of development of the state, the CM said the contribution of the community can be counted back to the days when India fought for its freedom from British rule.
He also appreciated the cooperation extended by GWS towards the present government and said that the apex organization has been cooperative in every policies and programmes of the state government.
The Chief Minister earlier felicitated the achievers from the Galo community and organisations for their contribution to the society. He also released a souvenir of the 11th Galo Baane Keba.
The occasion was also attended by Ministers, MLAs, and officers from the community. Rajiv Gandhi University Vice Chancellor Prof Saket Kushwaha was also present.
Responding to a public memorandum, the CM promised to create the headquarters of Divisional Commissioner (Central) for better administration of the central Arunachal considering the large geographical area of the state. He also assured to begin postgraduate courses at Donyi Polo Govt College, Kamki from the 2019-20 session.
Taking note of the vast agriculture and horticulture potential of the area, the CM also assured his support for establishment of an agriculture/horticulture college in Basar area on top priority. He also assured for a highway connecting four circles - Kamba, Darak, Yomcha and Liromoba with the precondition that there will be no provision for compensation.