Assam government plans to introduce tribal language in school textbooks

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• Dec 14, 2023 | Dhupali Das

The Assam government, under the leadership of education minister Ranoj Pegu, is set to revolutionize its education system by...

Digital Desk: The Assam government, under the leadership of education minister Ranoj Pegu, is set to revolutionize its education system by incorporating tribal languages into the basic education curriculum. This initiative, scheduled to commence in the upcoming school session, aims to provide textbooks in languages such as Mising, Deuri, Dimasa, Tiwa, and others, a move that aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has been entrusted with the responsibility of supplying textbooks in these tribal languages, reflecting a commitment to preserving the linguistic diversity of Assam. This decision follows extensive discussions with linguistic organizations representing various communities, including Mising, Rabha, Tiwa, Deuri, Karbi, Dimasa, Hmar, and Garo.

The introduction of tribal language textbooks is strategic, recognizing the need to enhance the educational experience for tribal students by teaching them in their native languages. Assam, home to over 55 languages and dialects, including the principal language Assamese, emphasizes the cultural and linguistic plurality of the state.

Assamese, derived from the Magadhi Prakrit, is the primary language, but the government acknowledges the significance of other tribal languages, with Bodo already approved as a medium of teaching. Additionally, languages like Mising, Rabha, Dimasa, Deori, Khampti, Turung, and Phake will be utilized until the primary level.

The decision to introduce tribal languages into the education system aligns with the NEP 2020, advocating for primary education in students' mother tongues before transitioning to regional or English languages at the secondary school level. Minister of State for Education Annpurna Devi highlighted the flexibility of the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF), allowing states to develop their curricula.

By incorporating tribal languages, Assam is taking a significant step towards inclusive education, respecting and promoting the linguistic heritage of its indigenous populations. This move is anticipated to positively impact the academic performance and cultural identity of tribal students, ensuring they receive foundational education in a language they deeply understand and connect with. As Assam pioneers this educational reform, it sets an example for other states to embrace linguistic diversity in their education systems.