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EFLU and Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti Host Conference on Language Unity in Shillong

EFLU and Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti Host Conference on Language Unity in Shillong

Highland Post

31 January 2026

Highland Post

The English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU) and Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti recently hosted a two-day conference in Shillong exploring India's linguistic diversity and heritage.

Speakers emphasized how India's 1,369 languages represent unique worldviews while sharing civilizational connections. Gauhati University Vice Chancellor Prof. Mahanta highlighted Northeast India's 300 ethnicities as a rich research resource and cultural corridor to Asia, while cautioning against documentation that overlooks these connections.

Padma Shri Chamu Krishna Shastry advocated viewing linguistic classifications as unifying rather than divisive. Meghalaya Chief Electoral Officer Tiwari stressed language's role in socialization and urged adoption of indigenous perspectives over colonial frameworks.

The conference also saw the launch of two publications: *Bharatiya Bhasha Pariwar: A New Framework in Linguistics* and *Collected Studies on Bharatiya Bhasha Pariwar: Perspectives and Horizons*.

Discussions covered multilingualism, traditional practices, technology applications, and preservation strategies for India's rich linguistic tapestry.