A two-day workshop on the theme of “Manipuri Language and the Demand for Classical Language Status” was inaugurated today at the auditorium of Ng. Mani College, Khurai Chairenthong, Imphal East. The programme is jointly organized by the Departments of English and Manipuri, along with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of the college.
The inaugural function was graced by Director of SCERT, Aheibam Romel Singh, as chief guest, while Principal of Ng. Mani College, Dr. W. Jibankumar Singh, presided over the function. Chairman of Ng. Mani College General Body, Sarangthem Somorendro Singh, who is also Secretary of the college, attended as guest of honour.
Addressing the gathering, Aheibam Romel Singh stated that the demand for inclusion of the Manipuri language in the list of classical languages has been under discussion for many years. He observed that despite the long-standing efforts, the goal has not yet been achieved, mainly due to the absence of a united and concerted approach from all concerned stakeholders. He stressed that the recognition of Manipuri as a classical language is a rightful claim of the Manipuri people, adding that collective efforts and a united stand are essential to realize this aspiration.
On the inaugural day, Prof. N. Pramodini Devi, Dean of Humanities, and Prof. Kh. Dhiren Singh from the Department of Linguistics, Assam University, Silchar, participated as resource persons in the second session.
The workshop will also feature deliberations by Prof. W. Nabakumar Singh, Prof. Chungkham Yashawanta Singh, and Dr. Longjam Anand as resource persons in the upcoming sessions.