Deaf and mute individuals achieved a remarkable feat by performing the Assam State Anthem, “O Mur Apunar Dexh,” as organized by Touch of Humanity-Lets Be Human (NGO), as stated in an official release by the Assam Book of Records. This event, orchestrated by TANMI, a Touch of Humanity-Lets Be Human (NGO), in collaboration with the Assam Association of Deaf, NERIM Group of Institutions, and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of Assam, set a record with 1010 participants.
The primary objective of this event, part of a broader awareness campaign, was to underscore the importance of learning sign language. Touch of Humanity-Lets Be Human (NGO) spearheaded the initiative, with support from other organizations, to coincide with the 4th Anniversary cum Foundation Day of the NGO, held at NERIM Group of Institution, Jayanagar, Khanapara, Guwahati on Monday, August 14, 2023.
Hirak Jyoti Borah, the organizer, expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of Assam, Pijush Hazarika, for their guidance and support. Borah also acknowledged the collaboration of various entities, without whom the event would not have been possible.
“We express our heartiest gratitude to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Govt. of Assam Pijush Hazarika for their guidance and support. We also express our associates Assam Association of the Deaf, NERIM Group of Institutions, BDS- Govt. School of Hearing Impaired, Dakhin Kamrup Deaf School for their utmost support without which this would have not been possible. We will be proceeding for further recognition such as national, international and world records,” he said
The overarching goal, as stated by Borah, was to advocate for the promotion of sign language and the protection of the rights of the Deaf and mute community. Borah emphasized the significance of garnering attention from both the Government of Assam and the Government of India, as well as international organizations, to address the issues faced by this community.
Borah expressed confidence in the support received from Assam’s leadership and outlined specific initiatives, including advocating for the introduction of ‘Assamese Sign Language’ and the ‘Assamese Dictionary of Sign Language.’ Additionally, plans were revealed for the establishment of a university dedicated to the higher education of deaf and mute students, along with proposals for increased job opportunities and the mandatory appointment of Sign Language translators in various sectors.
The Assam Book of Records (ABR) serves as a platform to showcase talent in Assam and the Northeast, with a focus on preserving endangered folklore, according to its official website. Registered under a trust, the ABR aims to protect and promote regional cultural heritage.