Tezu, Feb 16: The RIWATCH Centre for Mother Languages (RCML) released six children’s pictorial glossary books in the Taraon (Tawra~) Mishmi language aimed at promoting and preserving the community’s native tongue.
The titles include Tathi Kara Ma Me~ho Weyi Pya (Animals & Birds), TatyuTsaiya (Numerals), Ji-Ba (Action Verbs), Tum/Atum Khalai Yu¨ Mla~ (Nature & Environment), Me~ Tyang Tho (Human Body), and Wrek Zo Tapawtari Mago Halya (Crafts and Artefacts).
Published under the theme “Taraon (Tawra~) Tu¨ku¨bra Kasa Ringke” (“Let Us Learn Taraon”), the books were launched by Minister for Home and Inter-State Border Affairs, PHE & Water Supply, and the Department of Indigenous Affairs, Mama Natung, during the 56th Central Tamla~-Du¨ Festival celebration at Tezu.
These publications are the result of a close and well-coordinated collaboration between the RIWATCH Centre for Mother Languages (RCML), the Tawra~ Language Development Committee (TLDC) and the Cultural and Literary Society of Mishmi (CALSOM). This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding the Taraon (Tawra~) Mishmi language and strengthening intergenerational transmission through culturally rooted educational resources.
In his address, Natung appreciated the dedication and hard work of the RIWATCH team, acknowledging the commitment required for such an important initiative. He expressed gratitude for their efforts in preserving and promoting mother languages and assured continued government support for research, documentation, and awareness programs. He also emphasized the need to develop more children’s literature in indigenous languages to ensure their transmission to future generations.