The Tai Khamti language will be formally introduced as a third language in all government and private schools as well as Buddhist monasteries (Buddha Viharas) across Arunachal Pradesh’s Namsai district, starting August 16. The decision was taken during a high-level district development meeting held on July 4 at the Mini Secretariat in Namsai, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein. The meeting focused on a wide range of issues, including education, environment, public health, and cultural preservation. Emphasizing the urgency of the initiative, Mein said, “The loss of a language often leads to the erosion of rituals, traditions, and cultural identity. Preserving the Tai Khamti language is crucial for safeguarding our community’s heritage.” He directed the Deputy Commissioner to ensure that the new language policy is implemented uniformly across both government and private institutions in the district.
To facilitate the rollout, the Tai Khamti Heritage & Literary Society (TKHLS) has been entrusted with preparing primers for primary-level students and providing training to teachers in the local language. The inclusion of Tai Khamti aims not only to foster pride among the local community but also to ensure the younger generation stays connected to its roots. Alongside this major educational reform, several other developmental and ecological initiatives were outlined during the meeting. One such initiative is the observance of ‘Nadi Utsav’ on July 8, during which thousands of fish fingerlings will be released into rivers and streams across the district. The move is aimed at rejuvenating freshwater fish populations and restoring ecological balance.In a green push, the meeting approved the district-wide launch of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign. This unique plantation drive encourages every individual and institution to plant a tree in their mother’s name, reinforcing environmental consciousness and community involvement.
To strengthen sanitation and promote public hygiene, the administration has decided to adopt one village in each constituency as a model ‘Cleanliest Village’, to showcase best practices in waste management, clean water access, and community cleanliness. The meeting also addressed growing concerns over illegal activities. In response to increasing incidents of poaching and unauthorized fishing, especially during night hours, the district will deploy flying squads to enforce wildlife and forest protection laws more strictly. The initiative aims to curb illegal hunting and safeguard biodiversity in the region. Tackling the drug menace was another focal point. Mein called for stronger preventive action against narcotics, directing the active involvement of community-based organizations (CBOs) in awareness and enforcement activities.
