Koya Tribals Mark Gondi Language Day with Celebrations

Swift Summary

• The Koya tribals celebrated Gondi Language Day on July 21 in Alluri Sitarama Raju district, Andhra Pradesh.
• Activities included poetry recitations and discussions emphasizing the conservation of the Koya language.
• Tribal writers tellam Krishna and Ms. Bheemamma interacted with youth to share their literary journeys.
• In Yetapaka Mandal, teachers and youth under the banner of Adivasi Samkshema Parishad (ASP) called for teaching the Koya language in government primary schools.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The observance of Gondi Language Day highlights ongoing efforts by tribal communities to preserve their linguistic heritage amidst displacement caused by infrastructure projects like Polavaram irrigation. The emphasis on teaching regional languages in primary schools reflects a broader concern about cultural sustainability as rural populations face assimilation pressures from modernization. By engaging youth through literature and local advocacy groups such as Koitur Bata and Adivasi Samkshema Parishad, these initiatives could advance awareness about linguistic preservation while posing questions on whether state policies adequately support tribal education needs.

Read more: The Hindu