Mizoram Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Nirbhay Sharma said that language is a means of communication and exhorts the people of Mizoram to take keen interest in learning Hindi so that they can communicate with the rest of the country with ease. The Governor was speaking as Chief Guest at the closing function of the Hindi Fortnight observance which was held at All India Radio, Aizawl.Significantly, for the first time in the long 50 years of All India Radio, Aizawl, the Governor released a Hindi Magazine titled "Zo Orchid" published by the All India Radio, Aizawl to mark the Hindi Fortnight observance this year. Terming the Hindi Fortnight Observance as a "positive steps towards conforming with the vision of a strong and united India", the Governor expressed his hope that the fortnight observance will help in improving Hindi vocabulary and learning to appreciate more about different cultures.
Commenting that Hindi is the 4th largest spoken language in the world, which is being learnt by many people of different countries, Lt Gen (Retd) Nirbhay Sharma encouraged the youth of Mizoram to learn both Hindi and English for greater success in life. The Governor also said that with the "Act East" policy of the Government of India in the pipeline thereby the Mizoram is soon becoming a ”gateway", learning both Hindi and English would be an added advantage for the youth of the state so that they could become a global player. For leaning Hindi, the mindset has to change, said the Governor and appeals to all to give up the misconception that learning Hindi is cultural intrusion.
Lauding the contribution and service rendered by All India Radio, the Governor said that "Radio remains the best medium for dissemination of information to the people in the far-flung areas and the remotest villages" and added that "Its significance cannot be overstated, as it connects the citizens from all corners of the state".
Saying that "All India Radio is one of the most credible medium", the Governor further added that "there is also a case for increasing its reach even across the border by both technical upgrades and cultural exchange".
The function was also attended by DR Lalropuia, Director (E) & Head of Office, Prof R Lalthantluanga of Mizoram University, Prof CE Jeeni, President of Institute of Indian Language & Literature and Dr H Dengkimi, Principal, MHTC, amongst others.
cONTRIBUTION : Gin Gangte, gingangte@gmail.com