SHILLONG: The Department of Posts under the Ministry of Communications has officially recognized Meghalaya’s Khasi and Garo as eligible languages for its examinations.
This landmark decision to lift the language barrier is aimed at promoting inclusivity by incorporating local languages into national recruitment processes.
This decision was announced through an Office Memorandum (OM), following a proposal by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
On May 23, 2023, Chief Minister Sangma proposed the inclusion of Khasi and Garo as local language options for Gramin Dak Sevak and other postal positions in the state.
The proposal was addressed to Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw.
An Office Memorandum (OM) issued on July 10, 2024, has amended the language requirements for postal examinations in Meghalaya.
With the language policy change, the candidates can now select Hindi, English, Khasi, or Garo as the medium of examination based on their region.
Khasi is applicable for areas like East Khasi Hills and West Jaintia Hills, while Garo is designated for regions including East Garo Hills and West Garo Hills.
By offering examinations in regional languages, this policy change seeks to create more equitable opportunities for local youth by eliminating the previous language restriction to Hindi or English.