ITANAGAR, Feb 21: The Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society (APLS) organized a vibrant function at Jeevan Jyoti Hostel for Puroik Community Students in Balijan to mark International Mother Language Day. The event aimed to promote the use and preservation of the Puroik language among students.
Renowned writer Padmashri and Sahitya Akademi awardee Yesse Dorjee Thongchi, who is also the President of APLS, led an in-depth discussion on the significance of celebrating International Mother Language Day. He urged students to speak and write in their mother tongue to ensure the Puroik language remains vibrant for generations to come.
The event’s chief guest, Balijan ADC Takar Rava, commended APLS for its visionary efforts in organizing the celebration among Puroik students. Reflecting on his own school days, he noted that earlier generations often took pride in speaking Hindi over their native languages, which led to the gradual decline of many indigenous tongues. He encouraged students to prioritize their mother tongue at home and among friends to preserve their linguistic heritage.
Eminent writer R.N. Koley provided historical insights into International Mother Language Day, while VKV Balijan Principal Shyamal Chokraborty lauded APLS for fostering a literary culture in the state and urged students to embrace their native language.
The celebration also featured a speech competition in the Puroik language, with students competing in two groups from various schools in Balijan. Prizes were distributed to the winners, recognizing their efforts in promoting their mother tongue.
Adding to the cultural significance of the event, two Class IX students performed a self-composed song in the Puroik language, showcasing their dedication to linguistic preservation.
The program was enriched with valuable inputs from Mukul Pathak, General Secretary of APLS, and Tania Cardir Teli, Headmaster of Govt. Middle School, Balijan, both of whom emphasized the importance of nurturing indigenous languages.
