President Droupadi Murmu Champions Mother Tongues at Santali Language Day Celebration
A Call to Preserve Linguistic Heritage
Jamshedpur: On Monday, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the importance of preserving one's mother tongue while advocating for collaborative efforts to enhance societal welfare.
Speaking at the 22nd Santali 'Parsi Maha' (language day) and the centenary celebration of the Ol Chiki script at Dishom Jaherthan courtyard in Karandih, located on the outskirts of Jamshedpur in East Singhbhum district, she began her address with a prayer to 'Jaher Aayo' (the tribal mother deity) in Santali.
Murmu encouraged the audience, stating, "Learning various languages is beneficial, but it is crucial to retain your mother tongue. When conversing with your community, prioritize speaking in your native language," as she delivered her remarks in Santali.
She highlighted that the Ol Chiki script is now available on digital platforms and should be utilized to promote the language.
The President commended Tata Steel for its role in supporting the Ol Chiki initiative, stressing the need for collective action to improve society.
She also mentioned that the government has allocated ₹24,000 crore for the advancement of particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs).
During the event, Murmu honored 12 notable Santali figures for their significant contributions to Santali literature.
The gathering, which she attended as the chief guest, also saw the presence of Governor Santosh Gangwar, Chief Minister Hemant Soren, and TMC MP from Jhargram (West Bengal), Padmashree recipient Kalipada Soren.
This occasion celebrated a century of the Ol Chiki movement, initiated in 1925 by Pandit Raghunath Murmu.
In a tribute to the script's creator, President Murmu garlanded his bust.
Additionally, she is scheduled to participate in the 15th convocation ceremony of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Jamshedpur.
The President arrived in Jharkhand on Sunday evening for a three-day visit.
On Tuesday, she will head to Gumla to speak at the 'Antarrajyiy Jansanskritik Samagam Samaroh-Kartik Jatra' (interstate folk cultural gathering).