In a major boost to the cultural heritage of Manipur, the Modi government has allocated a sum of Rs 18 crore as the first installment to promote Manipuri language and script.
Rajya Sabha MP, Leishemba Sanajaoba tweeted on Sunday, “Modi Govt allocates Rs.18 Crores as 1st Installment to promote our language Manipuri & script recognising the use of this Language & script more than 2000 yrs in our Royal Chronicles.” (sic).
“Positively, we are approaching very near to achieve our language as Classical Language Status,” (sic) the MP added.
Moreover, MP Leishemba Sanajaoba, who is also the titular king of Manipur, has also announced a decisive step towards securing recognition for Meetei Mayek.
During the 22nd Foundation Day of the Meetei Erol Eyek Loinasillol Apunba Lup (MEELAL) at the JN Memorial Dance Academy in Imphal, he disclosed that a robust letter has been dispatched to the RBI urging the inclusion of Meetei Mayek on Indian currency notes.
Sanajaoba emphasised that upon receiving a response from the RBI, further details will be made public.
He also highlighted that all requisite documentation for the classification of Meetei Mayek as a classical language of India has been meticulously prepared by the Language Directorate and it is now poised for submission to the Centre.
Addressing the gathering, the MP highlighted the historical significance of Meetei Mayek, noting that out of approximately 1,800 languages spoken in India, only six have attained the status of classical languages.
He expressed optimism that Meetei Mayek’s inclusion would elevate it to the seventh classical language of the nation.
Commenting on the delay in the documentation process, Sanajaoba attributed it to unforeseen circumstances despite the proposal being tabled in Parliament as early as 2020.
He assured that the paperwork has now been completed and is ready for submission and approval.
Sanajaoba also highlighted the educational benefits anticipated from the recognition of Meetei Mayek, predicting an increase in the number of students pursuing MA and BA in Manipuri.
Moreover, he revealed ongoing discussions with the chief minister to establish Manipur as a primary center for UPSC examinations conducted in Meetei Mayek.
Emphasising the role of public support, the MP called upon the community to rally behind MEELAL’s efforts to uplift Meetei Mayek.
The event also saw the distribution of prizes to winners of a recent Meetei Mayek competition, alongside honors for individuals contributing to its preservation and promotion.
The programme also witnessed the presence of BOSEM chairman Akham Joykumar, JNMDA Director Pukhrambam Bilash, luchingpurel of MEELAL Khaidem Ingocha Meetei and HERICON Advisor Longjam Ratan.
