KOHIMA, May 27: Member of Parliament from Nagaland and Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir has welcomed the Government of India’s decision to recognise 19 notified tribal local languages and dialects of Nagaland in the recruitment process for Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS) under the Department of Posts, calling it a historic step towards protecting the linguistic and cultural identity of the Naga people.
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| Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir. (File Photo) |
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Jamir described the move as a major achievement for the indigenous communities of Nagaland and said it would ensure greater representation and inclusivity in the recruitment process for postal services in the state.
The Department of Posts, through an Office Memorandum issued on May 21, 2026, officially recognised proficiency and knowledge of the notified tribal local languages and dialects for engagement in GDS posts in Nagaland. The decision is expected to benefit local youth by ensuring that recruitment takes into account the linguistic realities of the state.
Jamir expressed gratitude to the Home Department of the Government of Nagaland, Kohima MLA Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, Nagaland Chief Secretary Sentiyanger, and Director of Postal Services, Kohima, Dr. Alice K. Vizo, for their efforts in pursuing the recruitment policy reform and supporting the recognition of tribal languages in the selection process.
According to Jamir, GDS recruitment was previously conducted on a broader all-India basis, often without sufficient consideration for local linguistic and cultural contexts. He said the latest decision would help safeguard the interests and opportunities of indigenous people by ensuring that local tribal languages receive due recognition in the recruitment mechanism.
“This is a major recognition of the linguistic and cultural heritage of the Naga people,” Jamir stated, adding that the initiative would encourage wider participation of Nagaland’s youth in the Gramin Dak Sevak recruitment system.
The Gramin Dak Sevak system forms a key part of India’s rural postal network, with GDS employees handling postal services, banking operations, and other essential communication functions in rural and remote areas. In a linguistically diverse state like Nagaland, local language proficiency is often considered crucial for effective communication and service delivery in villages and tribal regions.
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Nagaland is home to several major tribal communities, each with distinct languages and dialects. While English is the official language of the state, tribal languages continue to play a vital role in social identity, local governance, and cultural preservation.
Jamir further expressed hope that similar measures would continue in the future to strengthen efforts aimed at preserving and promoting indigenous tribal languages and cultural heritage across Nagaland.
The development has been welcomed in various circles in the state, particularly among organisations advocating for protection of indigenous identity, local employment opportunities, and recognition of tribal languages within government institutions and recruitment systems.
