Imphal, Manipur – July 2025 — In a country as diverse as India, where over 19,500 dialects are spoken, the task of preserving linguistic heritage is both monumental and critical. Leading this mission from the Northeast is Prof. Dr. Thokchom Chandramani Singh, an acclaimed linguist, academician, and torchbearer of India’s lesser-known and endangered languages.
With a career spanning over two decades, Prof. Singh has dedicated his life to safeguarding India’s linguistic tapestry, particularly focusing on tribal and indigenous languages that are fast vanishing in the face of globalization. Today, as the Professor and Dean at the Directorate of Regional Indian Languages and Research, Manipur International University, he continues to shape the future of language preservation in India and beyond.
A Humble Beginning in the Heart of Manipur
Born on February 1, 1977, in Imphal East, Manipur, Prof. Singh’s fascination with language, identity, and cultural roots took root early in life. His academic journey reflects brilliance and commitment—he graduated with a gold medal in linguistics in the year 2000, marking the start of a purposeful journey deeply rooted in scholarship and community service.
Pioneering Work in Tribal and Endangered Languages
Prof. Singh’s career breakthrough came as the first language scientist under the Dimensions of Language Endangerment program, initiated by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India. This role marked the beginning of extensive fieldwork among tribal communities, leading to groundbreaking documentation of languages such as Saimer, Aimol, and Tarao—languages that had little or no existing academic references.
His work with the Thangal Naga tribe stands as a landmark in Indian linguistics. Through his publication of the first Preliminary Grammar of Thangal Naga, Prof. Singh ensured that the cultural and linguistic identity of this endangered ethnic group received the recognition and preservation it deserved.
Notable Contributions and Publications
Prof. Singh’s scholarly work is both vast and impactful. His efforts in compiling 39 pictorial glossaries of various ethnic communities in Northeast India earned him a place in the USA Book of World Records 2025. These glossaries, rich with visual aids, help bridge communication gaps between communities and preserve linguistic nuances for future generations.
He is also credited for compiling “Sakok Thiren,” a sacred Meetei text that offers invaluable insight into the religious philosophy and cultural depth of the Meetei people. Furthermore, his work titled “Origin and Development of Early Indian Scripts” has been praised for its critical analysis of the evolution of writing systems in the Indian subcontinent.
Accolades and Global Recognition
Over the years, Prof. Singh’s unwavering dedication to linguistic preservation has earned him national and international recognition. Some of the most prestigious awards conferred upon him include:
- International Educationist of the Year 2023 – Indian Pride Iconic Awards
- National Educationist of the Year 2023 – Social Point, India
- Nelson Mandela Inspired Awards 2025 – For his compilation of pictorial glossaries and Thangal grammar
- Global Achievers Award 2025 – For his outstanding contributions to linguistic research
- Bharat Gaurav Samman 2025 – Honoring his work in preserving India’s linguistic diversity
- Rabindranath Tagore Inspired Awards 2025 – Recognizing his influence on language and cultural studies
Steering Language Research into the Future
At present, Prof. Singh heads the Directorate of Regional Indian Languages and Research at Manipur International University, an autonomous international university recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC), Government of India. His leadership role involves overseeing critical research projects, guiding scholars, and building a sustainable framework for language documentation and revitalization.
Beyond academia, Prof. Singh remains deeply rooted in his personal life. He resides in Koirou Thongju Part-2, Imphal East, with his wife, Dr. Waikhom Sanjita Devi, a respected Senior Clinical Professional at Apollo Excel Care Hospital, Boragaon, and their two daughters, Leimarenbi Thokchom and Lanchenbi Thokchom.
Conclusion: A Voice for the Voiceless Languages
Prof. Dr. Thokchom Chandramani Singh exemplifies the spirit of linguistic activism and scholarly excellence. His life’s work not only protects fading tongues but also empowers tribal communities by giving their languages—and thus their identities—a voice in the modern world. As India continues to march toward digitalization and globalization, the efforts of linguists like Prof. Singh ensure that its diverse heritage is not only remembered but revitalized.
His journey is an inspiring reminder that language is more than words—it is a living embodiment of culture, history, and humanity.
