Guwahati, February 16 – Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Monday that the Dimasa language will be introduced in schools as part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote indigenous languages.
Sharing the update on the social media platform X, the Chief Minister said that every language reflects the soul of its people and their cultural roots, adding that the government has prioritized the promotion and use of indigenous languages since its inception.
“With the introduction of Dimasa in schools, we are taking another step in this direction,” Sarma said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to strengthening Assam’s rich linguistic heritage.
According to the announcement, the Dimasa language will be introduced in phases into the school curriculum.
It will be taught at the secondary level, starting with Class IX in the academic session 2026-27, and extended to Class X from the academic session 2027-28.
Officials said that the move aims to provide institutional support to the Dimasa language, which is predominantly spoken by the Dimasa community in parts of Assam, particularly in the Dima Hasao district and surrounding areas.
The decision is expected to help preserve the language, encourage its formal learning, and ensure its transmission to younger generations. The initiative is also in line with the state government’s broader policy of promoting linguistic diversity and cultural inclusion in the education system.
In the past few years, Assam has taken steps to introduce and strengthen several indigenous and tribal languages in schools, recognizing their importance in safeguarding cultural identity.
Education department officials said that necessary preparations are underway, including the development of textbooks, curriculum frameworks, and teacher training, to ensure the smooth implementation of the decision.
Experts and community representatives are also expected to be involved in finalizing the academic content.
The announcement has been welcomed by members of the Dimasa community and language activists, who have long demanded formal recognition and inclusion of the language in the education system. They see the move as a significant step towards cultural empowerment and preservation.
The Chief Minister reiterated that protecting linguistic heritage remains a key priority for the state government, stating that Assam’s diversity is its strength and every language carries a unique legacy that must be safeguarded for future generations.
