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The Directorate of Language Planning and Implementation

A Pillar of Linguistic Policy in Manipur: Examining the strategic initiatives and challenges in fostering indigenous languages through governmental action.

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About the Directorate

Mandate and Purpose

The Directorate of Language Planning and Implementation (DLPI) is an integral body of the Government of Manipur. Its core mandate is to oversee and execute language planning initiatives and implement the state's language policies.[5] This strategic focus aims to nurture and develop the linguistic landscape of Manipur.

Geographic Focus

While primarily serving Manipur, the DLPI's activities and influence extend to the broader context of Northeast India. Its work is crucial for the preservation and promotion of the region's diverse linguistic heritage.[1]

Key Objectives

The Directorate's primary objectives encompass several critical areas of language development:

  • Language Policy Implementation: Ensuring government policies related to language are effectively put into practice.
  • Language Planning: Strategizing for the development, standardization, and promotion of languages.
  • Language Education: Supporting educational initiatives that incorporate and teach indigenous languages.
  • Language Revitalization: Undertaking efforts to revive and strengthen endangered or less-prominent languages.
  • Language Reform: Facilitating necessary reforms, such as script development and standardization.

Establishment and Milestones

Founding and Early Years

The Directorate of Language Planning and Implementation was established on September 4, 2013, by the Government of Manipur.[2] Its inception marked a significant governmental commitment to structured language development within the state.

  • November 2013: Collaborated with the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL) for a five-day training program on Natural Language Processing (NLP) for the Meitei language. This initiative focused on machine translation, OCR, spell checkers, and transcription/transliteration between Bengali and Meitei scripts.[8]
  • May 2014: Organized a 10-day workshop to develop Meitei-language terminology for subjects like Physics, Economics, and Geography, aiming to reduce reliance on English.[9][10]
  • September 2014: Conducted another 10-day workshop focused on producing translations of books for secondary school students.[11]
  • March 2016: Hosted a symposium on "Multiculturalism and Aspects of Translation," presenting papers on Meitei language promotion and enhancing translation quality for wider dissemination.[12]
  • June 2017: Organized a 10-day orientation program for college teachers on the Meitei script (Meetei Mayek) and launched Meitei language textbooks in e-book formats.[13]
  • April 2018: Held a three-day conference on "Classical Language Status in respect of Manipuri Language," with government officials assuring support for the Meitei language's classical status bid.[14]
  • August 2022: The Directorate's first anniversary coincided with the 18th Manipuri Language Day, highlighting its role as a key organizer of the annual celebration.[2]

Key Initiatives and Works

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

In collaboration with the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), the DLPI has actively pursued advancements in Natural Language Processing for the Meitei language. This includes critical work on machine translation, Optical Character Recognition (OCR), spell checkers, and the complex task of transliteration between the Bengali and Meitei scripts.[8] These efforts are foundational for integrating the Meitei language into digital environments.

Terminology Development and Translation

The Directorate has organized workshops dedicated to creating standardized terminology in the Meitei language for academic subjects such as Physics, Economics, and Geography. This initiative aims to facilitate education in indigenous languages by providing necessary technical vocabulary. Furthermore, DLPI has supported the translation of books for secondary school students, enhancing educational resources.[9][11]

Cultural and Linguistic Promotion

DLPI plays a significant role in promoting Meitei language and culture. It organizes events like the "Multiculturalism and Aspects of Translation" symposium to foster discussions on linguistic development and translation quality.[12] The Directorate also supports the Meitei script (Meetei Mayek) by conducting orientation programs for educators and launching educational materials in digital formats.[13]

Focus on Meitei Language

Classical Language Status

A significant undertaking by the DLPI has been its involvement in the movement to secure classical language status for the Meitei language. The Directorate has organized conferences and engaged with government officials to advocate for this recognition, underscoring the language's historical and cultural importance.[14]

Manipuri Language Day

The Directorate is a key organizer of the annual Manipuri Language Day, celebrated on August 20th. This commemoration marks the inclusion of the Meitei language in the Eighth Schedule to the Indian Constitution, a pivotal moment for its official recognition and promotion.[6][2]

Script Modernization

The Directorate actively supports the adoption and development of the Meitei script (Meetei Mayek). Initiatives include orientation programs for college teachers and the development of textbooks in Meitei Mayek, including digital formats, to ensure the script's integration into modern education and communication.[13]

Challenges and Criticisms

Concerns Over Language Promotion

In November 2020, social organizations, notably "MEELAL," voiced strong criticism regarding the government's focus on promoting Sanskrit over the development of Manipur's indigenous languages. They demanded that the DLPI and relevant authorities prioritize the promotion and development of local languages and the Meitei Mayek writing system before introducing other languages.[15]

Negligence in Documentation

In January 2022, the Wakhallon Mannaba Apunba (WAMA) expressed dissatisfaction with the Directorate's perceived negligence in documenting the Meitei language for its classical language status bid. WAMA criticized the current director, citing "irresponsible behaviours," and called for leadership changes to ensure the effective progress of linguistic documentation and advocacy.[16]

Leadership and Governance

Key Directors

The Directorate has seen several key figures lead its operations:

  • Th. Chitra: Served as Director (as of 2021).[2]
  • Dr. Laishram Mahabir: Director from December 21, 2016, to April 30, 2020.[1][3]
  • Kh. Raghumani: Served from September 4, 2013, to December 21, 2016.[3]

Parent Organizations

The DLPI operates under the purview of the Government of Manipur. It is affiliated with and receives funding from both the Government of Manipur and the Government of India, specifically through the Ministry of Culture (India).[5]

Funding and Support

Governmental Backing

The Directorate's operations are supported by significant funding from both the central and state governments. This includes contributions from the Government of India, particularly the Ministry of Culture, and the Government of Manipur.[5] This dual support structure underscores the national and regional importance placed on language planning and implementation.

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References

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Directorate of Language Planning and Implementation Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon publicly available data. It is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness, the content may not be entirely exhaustive, up-to-date, or free from interpretation.

This content does not constitute official government information or professional advice. The information provided is not a substitute for consulting official government sources, engaging with linguistic experts, or seeking professional guidance on language policy matters. Users should independently verify any information critical to their needs.

The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.