The Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysuru, has organised a two-day National Symposium on Language, Culture, and Knowledge Systems here on November 20.The event is dedicated to 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the revered tribal freedom fighter and social reformer, commemorated nationwide as ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ (November 15). “Dedicating the symposium to Bhagwan Birsa Munda honour his historic struggle for Jal, Jangal, Zameen (water, forest, and land), and his steadfast defence of tribal identity and dignity. The commemoration reinforces the legacy of tribal heroes in India’s freedom movement and their enduring contributions and sacrifices in India’s nation-building,” a press release said.This symposium underscores the national imperative to recognise, preserve, and promote the rich heritage and knowledge systems of India’s indigenous communities and will convene distinguished scholars, linguists, researchers, cultural practitioners, and tribal community representatives from across India. The deliberations will focus on the intricate interconnections between tribal languages, cultural expressions, and indigenous knowledge systems, highlighting their contemporary relevance and academic significance.The key themes for discussion include Janjatiya languages, tribal culture and arts and indigenous knowledge systems.Beyond academic discourse, the symposium aims to produce concrete and actionable policy recommendations to support the Ministry of Education in strengthening national initiatives related to tribal language preservation, cultural documentation, and the integration of indigenous knowledge within educational and research frameworks. The discussions are expected to contribute meaningfully to enhancing public knowledge and awareness on the vitality, resilience, and wisdom of India’s tribal communities, the release added.Published - November 19, 2025 06:29 pm IST