Manipur: Rs 18 crore sanctioned for Manipuri language and script

Imphal: To preserve and promote the Manipuri language and script, the Government of India has allocated Rs 18 crore as the first instalment for Manipur.

This announcement was made by Leishemba Sanajaoba, the titular king of Manipur and Rajya Sabha MP, who is also a member of the Official Language Committee of the Government of India.

The allocation recognizes the rich history and usage of the Manipuri language and script, which date back over 2,000 years in the Royal Chronicles.

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This development brings the language closer to achieving classical language status.

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Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the allocation, stating, "I sincerely thank and deeply appreciate the Hon'ble Prime Minister, Shri @narendramodi ji, for giving due recognition to the Manipuri language and its script."

The Chief Minister also acknowledged MP Leishemba's efforts to elevate the status of Manipuri as a classical language.

Additionally, the state government has been working to protect tribal dialects spoken in the state through various initiatives.

The Manipuri language has been included in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution since August 20, 1992, and is spoken by 1.76 million people in India, with the majority residing in Manipur.