[12] EDUCATIONAL REPRESENTATION OF TRIBAL LANGUAGES IN MANIPUR: AN ANALYSIS OF MODERN INDIAN LANGUAGE (MIL) SUBJECTS UNDER BOSEM AND COHSEM : How to Cite the Article: Kaganthuiliu Panmei, Ngangbam Monika Devi & Lamthaka Roma Maring (2026). Educational Representation of Tribal Languages in Manipur: An Analysis of Modern Indian Language (MIL) Subjects under BOSEM and COHSEM. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research & Reviews, 5(6),124-137.  https://doi.org/10.56815/ijmrr.v5i6.2026.124-137

Kaganthuiliu Panmei, Ngangbam Monika Devi& Lamthaka Roma Maring

Authors

Kaganthuiliu Panmei, Ngangbam Monika Devi& Lamthaka Roma Maring M.Ed Trainees, DM College of Teacher Education, Imphal.

Abstract

The present study examined the representation of tribal languages through Modern Indian Language (MIL) subjects in the school education system of Manipur. Using a descriptive research design, the study analysed secondary data obtained from the Board of Secondary Education, Manipur (BOSEM), the Council of Higher Secondary Education, Manipur (COHSEM), Census reports, and relevant government documents. Primary information regarding challenges associated with tribal language education was also collected from selected teachers and students. The findings revealed that only 17 of the 34 recognised tribal communities have corresponding MIL subjects under BOSEM, while only 11 languages continue under COHSEM. Considerable variation was observed in enrolment across tribal language subjects, although academic performance remained consistently high. The study further found that recognition of tribal languages is governed by specific demographic, academic, and institutional requirements. Limited representation, discontinuity across educational levels, and resource constraints emerged as major challenges. The study highlights the need to strengthen educational support for underrepresented tribal languages to promote linguistic diversity, cultural preservation, and inclusive education in Manipur.