Shillong, Apr 21: The Shillong-based Hid Foundation has lauded the Meghalaya government’s decision to initiate steps toward recognising Khasi and Garo as official languages of the state.
In a press statement issued on April 21, the organisation welcomed the decision taken under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening linguistic identity and improving communication between the government and citizens.
The foundation stated that as an organisation working closely with grassroots communities for more than 14 years, it has witnessed the challenges faced by many people when official communication is available only in English.
According to the organisation, many citizens, particularly those in rural areas, often struggle to understand government notices, forms and welfare schemes. The recognition of Khasi and Garo as official languages would enable people to communicate with the government in their own languages and better access public services.
The foundation said the move acknowledges the rich linguistic heritage of Meghalaya and will contribute to preserving indigenous identity. It added that recognising Khasi and Garo as official languages could promote mother tongue-based education and ensure more effective communication between the government and citizens at the grassroots level.
The organisation further noted that linguistic recognition strengthens cultural pride, safeguards traditional knowledge systems and empowers local communities to participate more actively in governance and development.
It also stated that the decision could encourage research, documentation and literary growth in both languages for the benefit of future generations.
The Hid Foundation expressed appreciation to the government led by Sangma for taking the step and also advocated for the inclusion of both Khasi and Garo in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
The organisation also acknowledged the continuous efforts of the Khasi Authors’ Society in pursuing the long-standing demand for the recognition of Khasi.
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