Meitei Mayek
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 10 2013 : Noting significant progress of Meetei Mayek script consequent to introduction of the indigenous script in the school curriculum, Education Minister Moirangthem Okendro has stressed on the need for translating the literary works of Manipuri writers into Meetei Mayek.

Speaking as the chief guest at the 78th annual session of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad at Manipur Dramatic union hall, yaiskul Police Lane today, Okendro pointed out that with bengali script already replaced by Meetei Mayek upto class VIII in the current academic session it would be futile to expect the upcoming generation to remain familiar with the Bengali script.

As it is inevitable that the indigenous script will ultimately be the medium of teaching in school education equal focus need to be on translation of literary works by Manipuri writers into Meetei Mayek so to enable the future generation comprehend Manipur's rich heritage in literature, said the Minister, who also reiterated that separate Directorate of Language would be set up for sustaining development of indigenous scripts and dialects of the State.

Clarifying out that the Directorate of Language is aimed at accommodating development and progress of indigenous scripts and dialects of all the ethnic communities, he expressed confidence that the Directorate would be able to address interest of the all the indigenous people settled in Manipur.

maintaining that purpose of conducting TET examination in Meetei Mayek was to facilitate smooth development and efficient learning of the script by the future generation, the Minister also appreciated contribution by Manipuri natives staying/settled in other parts of the country and abroad to enrich Manipuri literatures through the internet medium.

calling upon the literary figures of the State to suggest in what way the Government could contribute in the building construction of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad at Sangaipat, Okendro assured his personal contribution for the building construction.

Speaking at the occasion, Prof E Dinamani described status of Manipuri literature as vibrant and progressive with the assertion that members of over 100 literary organisations have been continuously contributing towards enrichment of the creative writing form.

Contrary to exuberance of Prof Dinamani, who also highlighted that Manipuri language being a recognised language could be used during parliamentary discussions, Dr Thokchom Ibohanbi lamented decline in the popularity of Manipuri language from school to college and university levels of education.

Noting preferences of the students for Alternative English instead of Manipuri, Dr Ibohanbi nevertheless exuded confidence that setting up of the Directorate of Language would lead to revival of scripts and languages of every ethnic community.

Citing case of Punjabi prescribed as a compulsory subject in Punjab State, he also suggested that Manipuri language be mandatory at all levels of education in Manipur.

As a part of the annual session, a two-day seminar related to revision of noted writer GC Tongbra's literary works was also inaugurated by the chief guest.

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