The Tarao tribe, a small and vulnerable community, is on the brink of losing its language and cultural identity. Listed as an endangered group by UNESCO, the Tarao people face an uncertain future, with their rich cultural traditions and unique language at risk of disappearing forever. However, amidst this somber reality, the relentless dedication of Prof. Dr. Thokchom Chandramani Singh has brought a much-needed beacon of hope to the community.
As a distinguished linguist and academic, Dr. Singh has committed himself to the documentation and promotion of the Tarao language. Collaborating with government bodies, academic institutions, and the community itself, he has worked tirelessly to safeguard this linguistic heritage. His contributions under the Dimension of Language Endangerment program, overseen by the Ministry of HRD, Dept. of Higher Education, Government of India, have laid critical groundwork for the preservation of the Tarao language.
Pioneering Work
Dr. Singh’s efforts have resulted in the creation of a pictorial glossary and a foundational grammar of the Tarao language, produced under the Centre for Tribal and Endangered Languages (CTEL), CIIL Mysore. This work, coordinated with G. Devi Prasad Sastry, has become a cornerstone for future linguistic research and preservation efforts.
Beyond academic documentation, Dr. Singh authored a compelling white paper on the Tarao language that has significantly raised awareness about the urgent need for its preservation. This document not only highlights the importance of the Tarao language but also serves as a call to action for stakeholders at all levels.
Moreover, a documentary film produced under ANI (Asian News International) further amplifies the community’s voice. The film captures the essence of the Tarao people’s life, culture, and traditions, offering a visual testament to their vibrant heritage and encouraging wider recognition and appreciation.
Tarao Tribe adoption on affordable healthcare at Imphal Hospital and Research Center, Imphal on 7th April 2022
Community Support and Empowerment
Dr. Singh’s commitment to the Tarao people is not limited to linguistic work. He has also played a vital role in improving healthcare access and supporting vulnerable members of the community. Working alongside Prof. Dr. Chanam Manglem, he adopted the Tarao tribe under an affordable healthcare initiative, providing crucial medical support to an otherwise underserved population.
He has extended personal assistance, such as sponsoring the medical treatment of Sandoi Tarao, a victim of a severe electrical accident, and donating wheelchairs and financial aid to differently-abled individuals in the community. These compassionate actions have not only improved individual lives but have also strengthened the bond between the Tarao community and the broader society.
Recognition and Impact
The significance of Dr. Singh’s work has not gone unnoticed. His projects have been officially sanctioned under the 11th Five Year Plan by CIIL, Mysore, the nodal agency for language development in India. Through his persistent efforts, the Tarao language and culture have gained national attention, and the community has been empowered with a renewed sense of pride in their heritage.
The ripple effects of his work are evident in the growing visibility of the Tarao people and in the increasing efforts by others to contribute to their cause. His work has sparked a movement that ensures the survival and continued vitality of this unique cultural identity.
Conclusion
The dedication of Prof. Dr. Thokchom Chandramani Singh stands as a powerful example of how individual commitment can drive cultural preservation and social transformation. His multifaceted approach—ranging from scholarly documentation to humanitarian outreach—serves as a blueprint for efforts aimed at saving endangered languages and uplifting marginalized communities.
Dr. Singh’s legacy is not just in the linguistic records or institutional recognition but in the lives he has touched and the culture he has helped revive. His work will continue to inspire future generations to value and protect cultural diversity. The preservation of the Tarao language is ultimately a fight to retain a distinct worldview, an irreplaceable identity, and a heritage that enriches the global human experience.
