DIMAPUR: A five day national workshop on “Crafting Digital Resources for the Languages of Nagaland” concluded at Tetso College, Sovima, on August 22 with the development of a working prototype of the Nagaland Language Digital Hub emerging as a key outcome.
Organised by the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysuru, in collaboration with the Department of Linguistics, Tetso College, the workshop brought together linguists, language experts, native speakers and community resource persons from August 18 to 22.
Twelve languages-Angami, Ao, Khezha, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Lotha, Phom, Rengma, Sangtam, Sumi, Tikhir and Zeme-were selected for the preliminary phase. Representatives worked with linguists and technical experts on language data collection, audio recording, transcription, verification and prototype development.
A major highlight was the demonstration of the Nagaland Language Digital Hub, showcasing how community language materials could be transformed into interactive learning activities rather than static wordlists or recordings. The prototype currently features 13 digital games and activities including Picture Match, Word Match, Listen & Spell, Sentence Builder, Family Tree and Crossword, designed for learners ranging from children to heritage language speakers.
The valedictory programme on August 22 was attended by Dr. Hewasa L. Khing, principal, Tetso College, along with participants and resource persons. The organisers stated that the prototype would be further reviewed, tested and refined before being adapted for other indigenous languages of Northeast India.
Community participation remained central to the initiative, with native speakers contributing and verifying language data. The next phase is scheduled for February 2027, when the prototype will be further developed and expanded.
The initiative marks a step towards language documentation, digital inclusion and language learning, while exploring the role of digital technology in supporting indigenous languages in contemporary educational and community contexts.
