The RIWATCH Centre for Mother Languages (RCML), in collaboration with Tanii Supun Dukun (TSD), organised an outreach programme on “Promotion and Revitalisation of Apatani Language” at Tasso Lapang, Hari Village, Ziro, on 11 August 2026.

The programme was organised as part of RCML’s ongoing efforts to document, preserve and promote the linguistic heritage of Arunachal Pradesh. It also marked the conclusion of the first phase of the fieldwork undertaken by the RCML research team for the documentation and preservation of the Apatani language.

Around 60 participants, including representatives of Apatani community-based organisations, village elders and community members, attended the programme. Discussions highlighted the vital role of native speakers, families and community institutions in ensuring the continued transmission and revitalisation of the Apatani language.

The programme featured talks, community reflections and documentary screenings, followed by interactions with prominent members of the Apatani community. Speakers emphasised the importance of creating spaces for the use of the mother language across generations and in diverse domains of everyday life, including homes, schools, markets and media.

The outreach programme reaffirmed the importance of collective community participation in safeguarding linguistic heritage and ensuring that the Apatani language continues to be transmitted to younger generations.

RIWATCH extends its sincere gratitude to Tanii Supun Dukun, Popi Sarmiñ Society, community elders and the youth of Apatani for their support and cooperation throughout the fieldwork and outreach programme.

Language is not merely a means of communication—it carries the knowledge, identity, memory and cultural heritage of a community. Preserving a language is therefore an investment in the generations to come.

News Covered:

Arunachal Times : https://arunachaltimes.in/article/rcml-s-outreach-prog-on-promotion-of-apatani-language-concludes