Encroachment of modernization endangers local languages

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 4, 2022

To commemorate the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (IDIL) 2022-2032, the Department of English and Communication, Martin Luther Christian University organized a one-day seminar on the topic “Language Endangerment” on Monday.

Delivering her keynote address, Prof. Umarani Pappuswamy, Deputy Director, Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL) stressed that it was imperative for us to highlight our culture and traditions including our languages not only in our regions but beyond.

She also said using data elicitation techniques, sources and materials such as multifunctional documentation like audio/video data, digital photographic data, and other such resources can ensure accessible data to future generations, “Language and cultural documentation go hand in hand”.

Dr. Lalnunthangi Chhangte, an independent Linguistics researcher said “our ignorance and apathy towards the encroachment of modernization and also westernization on most area of indigenous lifestyles has played a large role in the endangerment of our languages”.

Dr. Barika Khyriem, Asst Prof, NEHU, Shillong provided a comprehensive talk on the status of Austro-Asiatic Languages In India and concluded by using the Khasi adage “Im ka ktien, im ka jaitbynriew”  conveying the message that when a language lives, a community lives.

Dr Temsunungsang, Asst Prof, EFLU, Shillong spoke about the importance of being procative with communities and of the need to raise awareness of the critical situation of the indigenous languages at the community level, and that events such as the International Decade of Indigenous Languages(IDIL) can help to educate and create enough voice to help preserve.

The seminar was also attended by the Vice Chancellor, MLCU Prof. T K Kharbamon, faculty and students of the Department of English and Communication and other departments of the university.