NBT promotes children’s literature in Khasi, Garo languages
It has published 1,45,000 copies of 28 titles since 1995
The National Book Trust (NBT) of India, which recently organised a book fair in Shillong, has been playing a crucial role in promoting children’s literature in the Khasi and Garo languages.
The NBT stall at the fair had a section for children’s books in the Khasi and Garo languages, which are fighting for their inclusion in the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution.
NBT started its initiative in Khasi and Garo children’s literature in 1995 and has published 1,45,000 copies of 28 titles. It is also planning to publish other literature books in the two languages.
When asked whether there was a plan to translate popular fiction and non-fiction books into the Khasi and Garo languages, NBT said as part of the Shillong Book Fest, “the translation project is scheduled to be activated soon”.
“NBT is planning to translate 10 titles each in the publishing programme for 2025-26. Children’s authors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with NBT titles and can propose original stories. All language catalogues are available on the NBT website,” said an NBT official.
The book fair last month also showcased a wide collection in the Assamese language and books by Shillong-based authors.
Besides Khasi and Garo, NBT is also promoting books in other northeastern tribal languages such as Assamese, Mizo, Mising, Bodo, Kokborok, Lepcha, Ao Naga, Limboo, Newari and Bhutiya.
NBT is also collaborating with local authors and illustrators fo the books.
“We also promote them at a global level. We have been taking select books by local writers to international book fairs where copyrights have been considered for purchase by international players,” said the official.
NBT promotes these books and local authors at book fairs, exhibitions, Pustak Parikramas, seminars and workshops. For these, Rs 2.5 crore has been earmarked.
This promotion will help the Khasi and Garo languages to gain popularity and may leverage their case for inclusion in the Eighth Schedule.
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