The RIWATCH Centre for Mother Languages (RCML) has initiated the first phase of its Apatani language documentation project in Ziro, Lower Subansiri district, Arunachal Pradesh on 7th August 2026, as part of its ongoing efforts to document, preserve, and promote endangered indigenous languages of the region.
The research team comprises Dr. Mechek Sampar Awan, Dr. H. Kapginlian, Ms. Ama Pinky Kago, and Ms. Sapna Lingi.
As part of the initial phase of the project, the RCML research team held an interaction with representatives of the Tanii Supun Dukun, the apex body working towards the promotion and preservation of Tani literature and linguistic heritage. During the interaction, representatives of the Tanii Supun Dukun assured the RCML team of their cooperation and support in carrying forward the documentation work.
The study is being undertaken under the research project titled “Descriptive Grammatical Analysis of Apatani: Documenting an Endangered Tani Language of North East India.” The project is supported by the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Division, Ministry of Education, Government of India.
The project aims to systematically document the Apatani language, with particular emphasis on its grammatical structure, linguistic features, and broader linguistic characteristics. Through systematic documentation and research, the initiative seeks to contribute to the preservation of Apatani as well as the wider linguistic and cultural heritage of the Apatani community.
The launch of the first phase in Ziro marks an important step towards developing a comprehensive record of the Apatani language and creating valuable resources for future linguistic research, community-based preservation, and intergenerational transmission of indigenous knowledge.
Through initiatives such as this, RCML continues its commitment to documenting the diverse mother languages of Northeast India and strengthening efforts towards the preservation of the region’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage.
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