Guwahati, February 13: In a major step towards promoting indigenous language preservation, the Assam State School Education Board (ASSEB) has announced the introduction of Dimasa as a new elective subject in the state curriculum. The subject will be offered to Class IX students from the academic session 2026–2027.
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As per official notification issued on February 9, 2026, the rollout will follow a phased implementation. The subject will begin for Class IX in 2026–27 and be extended to Class X in the 2027–2028 academic session.
Students will have two options to study Dimasa. They may choose it as a regular elective subject under the name ‘Dimassa (E)’, or opt for it in lieu of the Modern Indian Language (MIL) paper. Those selecting it in place of MIL will study a composite paper comprising 50 per cent English (IL) and 50 per cent Dimasa. The board clarified that students choosing the subject in lieu of MIL cannot simultaneously opt for it as an elective.
To ensure availability of authentic learning materials, the N.C. Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC), Dima Hasao district, has been entrusted with providing the necessary textbooks.
Cabinet Minister for Sports and Youth Welfare Nandita Gorlosa welcomed the move, describing it as a historic moment for the Dimasa community. She expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Education Minister Ranoj Pegu for supporting the initiative.
The introduction of Dimasa into the state curriculum is being viewed as a significant measure to safeguard the linguistic heritage of the Dimasa people and strengthen its presence within Assam’s mainstream education system.
