In a historic move to preserve and promote the Konyak language, the Konyak Literature Board (KLB) officially released its much-anticipated publication, A Descriptive Grammar of Konyak Language, at a grand ceremony held at the Konyak Union Conference Hall, Mon.
The event was graced by member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), S Phangnon Konyak as Guest of Honour.
KLB Chairman S Manlip Konyak provided an overview of the book project and the Board’s journey since its inception in 2017. He acknowledged the invaluable support of former Minister EE Pangteang Konyak, the Konyak Union, Konyak Village Council, VDB Association, and the broader Konyak community. Special mention was made of Rev Peihwang Wangsa, Dr. Yanang Konyak, Rev T Honlong, Nikay Besa, and Prof Pangersenla Walling for their unwavering efforts in completing the publication.
The book, priced at Rs 1000, and the accompanying Word Dividend Rule Booklet (Rs 100), will be available at the Literature Board Office. Konyak citizens were encouraged to purchase copies to help promote the spoken language among future generations.
Deputy Commissioner of Mon, Wennyei Konyak, congratulated the team and emphasized the importance of using the book to strengthen the community’s linguistic identity.
EE Pangteang Konyak stressed the need for adequate funding and active functioning of the Literature Board Office. He urged elected Konyak leaders to champion the inclusion of the Konyak language in higher education curricula.
Guest of Honour S Phangnon Konyak congratulated the Board and the authors, calling the grammar book a milestone in documenting the oral heritage of the Konyak people. She encouraged the youth to develop interest in reading and writing in their mother tongue and praised their role in bridging oral traditions with written knowledge. She also took the opportunity to commend Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the successful “Operation Sindoor,” aimed at ensuring national security.