IMLDC | IMCLS

Idu Mishmi Language Development Committee (IMLDC)

Background

Over the years, numerous efforts have been made to develop a writing system for the Idu language; however, most have lacked a scientific understanding of its unique phonetic features and therefore have not gained widespread acceptance. Recognizing the need for a more accurate and practical approach, the Idu Mishmi Language Development Committee (IMLDC) adopted the Roman script, which better captures the tones and nasalized vowels of the Idu. The initiative traces back to 1997, when Shri Laeta Umbrey, Hon’ble former Member of Parliament, first envisioned a proper script for the language. What began as an incomplete effort has since evolved into a dedicated movement led by the IMLDC—focused on research, training, and resource development to preserve, promote, and revitalize the Idu language for generations to come.

Our Journey

To advance the vision of preserving and promoting the Idu language, the Idu Mishmi Cultural and Literary Society (IMCLS) constituted the IMLDC in 2012. Since then, the Committee—comprising dedicated members include Dr. Mite Lingi, Mr. Hindu Meme, Mr. Yona Mele, and Mr. Apomo Linggi—has worked to develop a simple, accurate, and enduring writing system for the Idu language.
In 2015, under the guidance of linguist Dr. Roger M. Blench, the IMLDC began an in-depth study of Idu phonetics, leading to the approval of a new script in 2017. By early 2018, foundational learning materials, including a Reading & Writing Book and an Alphabet Chart, were published, marking a milestone in Idu language preservation.

Since then, the Committee has continued to promote the script through teacher training, school collaborations, and digital initiatives, including mobile applications and a keyboard software—ensuring the Idu language thrives in both cultural and modern contexts.

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Major Works

The work of the IMLDC has primarily focused on the creation and consolidation of the complete Idu language system. This comprehensive effort encompasses grammar, dictionary development, phonetic studies, and the design of application-based tools, guidebooks, and other learning resources.

In February 2018, the Idu Dictionary and Grammar Book were formally released by Shri Mukut Mithi, former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, during the auspicious occasion of the Rẽ Festival—marking a significant milestone in the linguistic and cultural history of the Idu community.

On 5th September 2021, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pema Khandu, officially released the Mother Tongue Textbooks of Arunachal Pradesh at the Banquet Hall, Itanagar. During this event, the IMLDC’s first textbook, “ASAHI,” was also launched and subsequently introduced in classrooms from the next academic session—a proud moment for Idu language education.

The IMLDC also plays a key role in capacity building and teacher training. Each year, the Committee imparts training to new batches of Idu language teachers at the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), Itanagar. These sessions focus on effective teaching of the Idu script, pronunciation, grammar, and classroom methods, ensuring that future educators can confidently teach the language using standardized materials and modern approaches.

In February 2023, the Committee developed workable mobile applications for the Idu Dictionary, as well as specialized apps on Idu Insects, Idu Fish, and Idu Reptiles—projects that continue to expand and evolve.

Continuing its digital innovation, in August 2025, the IMLDC successfully created and launched the Idu Language Keyboard Software for mobile phones, now available on the Google Play Store. Work is currently underway to develop a compatible version for laptops and PCs, further enhancing accessibility and usability for the Idu-speaking community.