KHADC Chief Executive Member (CEM) Pyniaid Sing Syiem has said that funds have been earmarked for students and scholars who want to carry out research on the unique identity of the Khasis.
He said that the district council, in collaboration with the government, has earmarked Rs 50 lakh for research on the language, clan system, religion, grassroots institutions, traditional music and attire, etc. of the Khasis.
Speaking at the Literary Day function, which coincides with its foundation day of the Khasi Authors Society (KAS), the CEM said that through Articles 244 and 275 (1) of the Constitution the council has been empowered to recognise and approve customary practices followed by the Khasi people.
Further research into customary practices will enable the KHADC to extend rules and recognition lawfully, Syiem added while lauding KAS for its contribution to society, especially in helping the young generation to know their roots and practices.
“I believe that KAS has made massive contributions to Khasi society in its 44-year journey and will continue to be a blessing to future generations,” he said, adding that the KHADC is willing to work with KAS for the welfare of the Khasi people.
KAS president Prof DRL Nonglait said that one of the big projects of the society is work on a Khasi dictionary, which they aim to complete within a year, and standardisation of the language, which is being supported by the Department of Arts and Culture and the KHADC.
Informing that recently the KHADC released Rs 8 lakh for the Khasi dictionary project, he said, “If we want the Khasi language to live then it should also be used as an official language in the state.”
During the event held at Lady Keane College, KAS also presented awards to students who secured high marks in the Khasi language subject at school, college and university exams.
As part of the programme, a regional seminar on the topic ‘Ka Tip-Kur Tip-Kha Ha U Khasi’ was also organised.
