Odisha's CM Promises Support for Santali Language and Culture

Commitment to Santali Language Preservation

Bhubaneswar: On Saturday, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his commitment to the Santali language by assuring a committee of experts that the Odisha government would implement necessary measures to promote and safeguard Santali language and literature, particularly in the educational sector.

During a meeting at his official residence, members of the Santali language expert committee, along with representatives from various Santali organizations, presented a range of issues related to the language's development.

The delegation submitted a memorandum requesting the recognition of Santali as a minority language using the Ol Chiki script, along with educational resources for students studying the language. They also advocated for the inclusion of Santali in the three-language formula of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, from Classes I to X and at the higher secondary level as a Modern Indian Language (MIL) and elective subject.

Additional requests included the hiring of Santali language teachers and the allocation of dedicated seats for BEd courses in teacher education colleges located in Baripada, Baleshwar, and Anandapur. Majhi listened attentively to these requests and assured the delegation of the government's dedication to preserving tribal languages and literature.

He indicated that the government would soon take constructive actions based on the expert committee's recommendations, considering the overall advancement of the Santali community. Majhi also highlighted the significance of President Droupadi Murmu's position as a source of pride for both the Santali community and the nation, noting that her role has elevated the visibility and acknowledgment of Santali language, culture, and tribal identity on both national and global platforms.