Uttaranchal University observed 21st February, 2018 as ‘Matribhasha Diwas’ and organized many activities to celebrate diverse languages as per the directive of University Grants Commission. UGC is following the footsteps of UNESCO which observes ‘International Mother Language Day’ in order to promote ‘fuller awareness on linguistic and cultural traditions based on understanding, tolerance and dialogue’. UNESCO’s aim with the day is to promote sustainable futures through multilingual education. ‘International Mother Language Day’ (IMLD) is a worldwide annual observance held on 21 February to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity and promote multilingualism. The theme of ‘International Mother Language Day’ for the year 2018, as released by UNESCO, was “Our languages, our assets”.
“Languages are the most powerful instruments of preserving and developing our tangible and intangible heritage. All moves to promote the dissemination of mother tongues will serve not only to encourage linguistic diversity and multilingual education but also to develop fuller awareness of linguistic and cultural traditions throughout the world and to inspire solidarity based on understanding, tolerance and dialogue.”
— From the United Nations International Mother Language Day microsite
Concurring with the aim of UGC, the events organized by the constituent colleges of Uttaranchal University endeavored to highlight linguistic diversity in the country, encourage usage of mother tongue and draw attention to literature, performing arts, scripts and other forms of creative expression. The varied events organized to celebrate the day included singing event (including singing of songs in respective mother tongue), debate on language diversity, poem recitation, slogan writing competition, Essay Writing Competition, Poetry Writing Competition, to name a few.
