‘All languages are equal’: NBT affirms during Mizo Translation Workshop

The National Book Trust, India (NBT) conducted a two-day Mizo Translation Workshop on March 17-18 at Mizoram University in Aizawl, bringing together 20 translators to review English titles translated into Mizo under its ongoing programme.

The workshop focused on enhancing linguistic accuracy, conceptual clarity, stylistic coherence and terminological consistency. It served as a collaborative platform for manuscript review, allowing translators to refine their work ahead of final editorial processing. Sessions emphasised academic rigour, peer evaluation and shared responsibility in maintaining high standards.

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The inaugural ceremony was inaugurated by Prof. Vanlalchhawna, Department of Economics, SEMIS, Mizoram University, Aizawl. He highlighted the importance of multilingual education under the National Education Policy 2020. He stressed that mother tongue-based education enhances comprehension, particularly in complex subjects, and noted that linguistic diversity is constitutionally recognised under the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. He also pointed out the need for cultural sensitivity in translation, especially in Mizo, where literal and contextual meanings often differ.

In his welcome address, Kumar Vikram, Chief Editor and Joint Director of NBT, underscored the importance of building a strong translation ecosystem. “All languages are equal, and there are no major or minor languages,” he said, adding that translation ensures equitable access to knowledge and opportunities. He also highlighted initiatives such as PM-YUVA Scheme aimed at nurturing young writers and strengthening the literary landscape.

Referring to India’s participation as Guest of Honour at the Bogotá International Book Fair, Vikram noted that such global platforms enhance the visibility of Indian literature and facilitate cultural exchange.

The technical review sessions were led by Dr Zoramdinthara and Dr Lalnunpuia Renthlei, Head, Department of Mizo, Mizoram University, and Dr Lalnunpuia Renthlei, Assistant Professor, Department of Mizo, Pachhunga University College, Mizoram University, who guided participants in ensuring precision and consistency across translations.

The workshop aimed to strengthen editorial standards, address translation challenges collaboratively and ensure clarity and uniformity in manuscripts prior to publication. Expected outcomes included improved linguistic refinement and readiness of manuscripts for final editorial review.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dwijendra Kumar, Assistant Editor, National Book Trust, India, who acknowledged the contributions of participants and organisers. The event reaffirmed NBT’s commitment to promoting regional language publishing and advancing India’s translation ecosystem, reiterating the message that all languages hold equal value while underscoring the role of translation in education, unity and national integration.