Odisha to Offer Education in Santali Language from KG to PG
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Tuesday that the state government is planning to provide education in the Santali language from kindergarten to postgraduate (KG to PG) levels. This significant initiative was unveiled at the seventh annual conference of the Odisha unit of the All-India Santali Writers’ Association.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of promoting indigenous languages and preserving cultural heritage. “If everyone can receive education in the Santali language by 2025, it will be a real tribute to Pandit Raghunath Murmu, the creator of the Ol-Chiki script in 1925,” Majhi stated.
The state government’s plan aligns with its broader efforts to ensure inclusive education and foster linguistic diversity. The initiative is expected to benefit the Santali-speaking community, empowering students with the opportunity to learn in their mother tongue while preserving their rich cultural identity.
Santali, recognized as one of the scheduled languages under the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, holds historical and cultural significance. The Chief Minister’s announcement has been widely appreciated by the Santali community and language activists.
Further details about the rollout of the KG-to-PG curriculum in Santali are expected to be announced in the coming months.