Revised Thadou‑Kuki MIL Textbook for Classes XI & XII Released in Kangpokpi
Short Summary of the News
A revised Modern Indian Language (MIL) textbook titled “Thugil Lagil Bu Thimthu le Jaila” (Prose and Poetry), designed for Classes XI and XII in the Thadou‑Kuki medium, was officially unveiled on June 26, 2025 at Elite Higher Secondary School, Kangpokpi. Edited by Dr. D.L. Haokip and published by the Thadou‑Kuki Literature Society (TKLS), this textbook aligns with NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework 2023, and aims to modernize and enrich the education of higher-secondary students in Thadou‑Kuki literature. The event was graced by key dignitaries and prominent community scholars.
1. Introduction: A Cultural Milestone in Education
Ever felt that shiver of excitement when a beloved tradition gets a fresh glow-up? That’s exactly what’s happening in Manipur, specifically for the Thadou‑Kuki community. On June 26, 2025, an important event took place at Elite Higher Secondary School in Kangpokpi—the launch of the revised MIL textbook for Classes XI and XII, “Thugil Lagil Bu Thimthu le Jaila”—a title that resonates deep with locals, meaning something like “The Heartfelt Prose and Poetry.”
It’s more than just words on a page; it’s a revival—empowering students to embrace their stories, their language, and their roots. This is where tradition and modern curriculum shake hands, creating a vibrant learning experience.
2. Why This Update Matters Right Now
2.1 NEP 2020 & NCF 2023: The New Standards
The National Education Policy 2020 reshaped how languages are taught in India. It emphasized mother tongue instruction, cultural inclusion, and contemporary relevance. Meanwhile, the National Curriculum Framework 2023 gave states and boards a clear roadmap: ensure that textbooks are inclusive, updated, and aligned with current educational goals. The revised Thadou‑Kuki MIL text ticks all those boxes.
2.2 Modernizing the Old: Keeping Heritage Alive
For over 20 years, students used outdated teaching materials. This update breathes fresh energy into the content, making it both academically sound and culturally resonant. It ensures that Thadou‑Kuki youth don’t just learn—it feels like home.
3. The Book & Its Makers
3.1 Title & Theme
“Thugil Lagil Bu Thimthu le Jaila”—let that title sink in. It’s a lyrical reminder that prose and poetry are windows into the soul of a language. And this book offers 120+ pages of deep-dive readings, fine-tuned in both content and context.
3.2 The Editor: Dr. D.L. Haokip
Dr. Haokip is a guardian of Thadou‑Kuki culture. As editor, he curated a balanced collection of classic and contemporary works, ensuring students are grounded in tradition while still reading pieces that reflect the present.
3.3 Publisher: Thadou‑Kuki Literature Society (TKLS)
TKLS is the backbone of this project—a community-driven organization dedicated to promoting literature in Thadou‑Kuki. Their efforts have been vital in preserving the language and giving it a formal, institutional voice.
4. The Launch Event: Community & Ceremony
4.1 Venue & Date
Host school: Elite Higher Secondary School, Kangpokpi.
Date: July 26, 2025. Official, heartfelt, and hopeful.
4.2 Chief Guests & Dignitaries
- Rev. K. Hangshing, Chairman of Kangpokpi Town Churches Fellowship, who formally released the book.
- Dr. Ngamkhohao Haokip, chairman of TKLS, who spoke on the importance of preserving language.
- Other TKLS stalwarts: Jamkholim Kipgen (Secretary), Zamhao Haokip (Finance Secretary), Paogin Singsit, and more.
Together, their presence underscored how deeply the community values keyword-rich heritage.
5. Features of the Revised Edition
5.1 Prose and Poetry Mix
A curated mix—short stories, essays, local lore, folk tales, and poems. Each piece is designed to spark critical thinking, emotional depth, and cultural resonance.
5.2 Balanced Voices
Contributions from both veteran writers and emerging talents ensure diversity—reflecting generational richness.
5.3 Pedagogical Updates
Aligned with NEP: includes study prompts, vocabulary lists, and guidelines to connect texts with local culture and identities.
5.4 Aesthetic Upgrades
Beautiful layout, clearer fonts, ethnic-themed illustrations—a fresh design to make every page pop.
6. Impact on Students & Language Revival
6.1 Empowering Students
When students see their language and experiences reflected in textbooks, it boosts confidence. It’s validation—you belong in the textbooks, academically and culturally.
6.2 Cultural Continuity
Embedding Thadou‑Kuki literature in education ensures cultural stories are passed on—word by word, verse by verse—from one generation to the next.
6.3 Linguistic Diversity
Teaching in Mother Tongue strengthens overall learning outcomes. It also supports India’s goal of preserving hundreds of other indigenous languages.
7. Distribution and Reach
- Elite Higher Secondary School in Kangpokpi – first access point.
- Bookstores in Churachandpur, Chandel, and Tengnoupal districts, notably KBC Book Store, Tuibong – expanding reach.
Comparison With Other Ethnic MIL Texts
Other languages in Manipur—like Meitei, Paite, Zou—are undergoing similar revisions. But Thadou‑Kuki’s textbook stands out due to its focused blend of academic rigor and community voice.
Five Unique FAQs
Q1: What curriculum standards guided this revision?
Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 and National Curriculum Framework 2023, the textbook modernizes content while maintaining cultural integrity.
Q2: Who is Dr. D.L. Haokip?
A respected Thadou‑Kuki scholar and editor, Dr. Haokip curated the content and ensured high academic and cultural relevance.
Q3: How can students beyond Kangpokpi access the book?
The textbook is available at KBC Book Store, Tuibong, for students in Churachandpur, Chandel, and Tengnoupal districts.
Q4: Will teacher training be provided?
Yes—TKLS is coordinating workshops to help teachers transition to using the new material effectively in classrooms.
Q5: Are e‑editions planned?
While not officially announced, TKLS may explore digital editions and multimedia supplements to expand reach.
