State Government Undertakes Various Measures for Kokborok Language Development: Agriculture Minister
Tripura 19 Jan, 2025: The development of Kokborok, along with other minority languages in the state, is a priority for the government. The state has undertaken multiple steps for the advancement of Kokborok. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also emphasized the importance of promoting every community’s mother tongue. Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Ratanlal Nath stated this today while inaugurating the 47th Kokborok Year-2025 celebration at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan’s Hall No. 1. The event was organized under the initiative of the Kokborok and Other Minority Languages Rights Committee.
The minister highlighted the need for both Kokborok-speaking and other communities to actively contribute to the development of Kokborok. On January 19, 1979, Kokborok was officially recognized as a state language. The current government has implemented several plans to promote it. Kokborok has been introduced as a specific subject from primary schools to universities. The language is taught in 1,163 schools from classes 1 to 5, 133 schools from classes 6 to 8, 115 schools in classes 9 and 10, and 65 schools in classes 11 and 12. Additionally, Tripura (Central) University offers a Ph.D. program in Kokborok.
The event also saw speeches from MLA Ram Pada Jamatia, Vice Chairman of the Kokborok Language Development Advisory Committee, and Ravel Hemendra Kumar, Special Secretary of the School Education Department. Director of Higher Education Animesh Debbarma and Director of School Education Nripendra Chandra Sharma were also present. Dr. Atul Debbarma, Chairman of the Kokborok Language Development Advisory Committee, presided over the program.
The guests unveiled the covers of the literary magazine “Khumpui” and the souvenir “Yakpai Bol-VI” during the event. Four Kokborok literary books were also launched. Anandhari Jamatia, Director of the Kokborok and Other Minority Languages Department, delivered the vote of thanks.
As part of the 47th Kokborok Day 2025 celebrations, a vibrant rally started from the Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan premises in the morning, passed through various city streets, and concluded at the same venue. The rally witnessed the participation of Agriculture Minister Ratanlal Nath, Dr. Atul Debbarma, MLA Ram Pada Jamatia, students, artists, poets, and writers. Later, a colorful cultural program was held at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan.
During the event, Kokborok teachers Tona Tripura, Ahlaya Riang, Sabita Debbarma, Dipra Kishore Debbarma, Nitai Acharya, and Joykumar Debbarma were felicitated. Each received a check of ₹15,000, mementos, and certificates from the dignitaries.
