By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 3: In a landmark moment for the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Ferdinand Lyngdoh – a PhD scholar with a hearing impairment – has been honoured with the prestigious National Award for “Shresth Divyangjan” by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India.
The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Wednesday, coinciding with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
For NEHU and the region, this recognition is more than a personal achievement. It signifies a growing national appreciation for inclusive research, accessibility, and representation of indigenous sign languages.
Pursuing his doctoral research in the Department of Linguistics, NEHU, Marshillong dedicated his academic journey to the study of Khasi sign language — an area that has long remained undocumented and underrepresented.
His research, titled “Khasi Sign Language: Acquisition, Structure and Social Implications of Indigenous Signs” and supervised by Dr Saralin A Lyngdoh, explores linguistic patterns, cultural nuances, and social significance of sign usage within Khasi communities.
By bringing to light the structure and evolution of indigenous signs, his work aims to strengthen communication accessibility while highlighting the rich linguistic diversity that exists beyond spoken languages.
Marshillong’s contribution is being hailed as a pioneering effort that not only validates the lived experiences of persons with hearing impairment in Meghalaya but also pushes for broader acknowledgment of sign languages as legitimate linguistic systems.
His recognition at the national level underscores the importance of such scholarship in shaping inclusive policies, education, and social empowerment.
NEHU has expressed pride in his achievement, stating that his recognition brings honour to the university and inspires a more inclusive academic environment across the region.
Adding to the significance of the day, NEHU welcomed Ms. Julia, Attachée for French Language Cooperation from the French Institute in India, as part of a broader push toward international collaboration.
Her visit included discussions with NEHU’s academic leadership on potential partnerships involving student exchanges, joint research, and mobility programmes with French institutions.
She highlighted the role of Campus France India in facilitating higher education opportunities in France, offering guidance on admissions, scholarships, and visa processes. The discussions signal promising avenues for NEHU scholars seeking global exposure and research opportunities.
