Volume 03 Issue 07-2023
5
International Journal Of Literature And Languages
(ISSN
–
2771-2834)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
07
Pages:
05-08
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
6.
997
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
ABSTRACT
This study examines the linguistic landscape of Assam, focusing on the usage of the Assamese language and the
relationship between dialectal varieties and the standard language. Assam is known for its rich linguistic diversity, with
numerous dialectal variations existing alongside the standard Assamese language. This research aims to explore the
dynamics between these dialectal varieties and the standard language, analyzing factors that shape their usage
patterns and the sociolinguistic implications of such variations. Through a combination of field surveys, language
documentation, and sociolinguistic analysis, the study provides insights into the role of the standard Assamese
language as a linguistic anchor and the challenges faced by dialect speakers. The findings contribute to a better
understanding of linguistic diversity in Assam and offer valuable insights for language planning and preservation
efforts.
KEYWORDS
Assam, Assamese language, dialectal varieties, linguistic diversity, standard language, sociolinguistics, language
variation, language planning, language preservation.
INTRODUCTION
Research Article
LINGUISTIC DIVERSITY IN ASSAM: EXPLORING DIALECTAL VARIETIES
AND THE ROLE OF THE STANDARD ASSAMESE LANGUAGE
Submission Date:
June 25, 2023,
Accepted Date:
June 30, 2023,
Published Date:
July 05, 2023
Crossref doi:
https://doi.org/10.37547/ijll/Volume03Issue07-02
Dr.Baishalee Kalita
Department of English Royal Global University, Assam, India
Journal
Website:
https://theusajournals.
com/index.php/ijll
Copyright:
Original
content from this work
may be used under the
terms of the creative
commons
attributes
4.0 licence.
Volume 03 Issue 07-2023
6
International Journal Of Literature And Languages
(ISSN
–
2771-2834)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
07
Pages:
05-08
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
6.
997
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
Assam, a region renowned for its linguistic diversity,
boasts a vibrant linguistic landscape where various
dialectal varieties coexist alongside the standard
Assamese language. The intricate relationship
between these dialects and the standard language
presents an intriguing sociolinguistic phenomenon
worthy of exploration. This study aims to delve into the
linguistic diversity of Assam, with a specific focus on
the usage of the Assamese language and the dynamics
between dialectal variations and the standard
language. By examining the factors that influence the
usage patterns of these dialects and their
sociolinguistic implications, this research seeks to shed
light on the role of the standard Assamese language as
a linguistic anchor and the challenges faced by dialect
speakers in maintaining their language heritage.
METHOD
To achieve the objectives of this study, a combination
of qualitative and quantitative research methods will
be employed.
Field surveys will be conducted to gather primary data,
involving interviews and language use observations in
various communities across Assam. The surveys will
include participants representing different age groups,
occupations, and linguistic backgrounds, aiming to
capture a diverse range of perspectives and
experiences related to language use.
Language documentation will be carried out to record
and analyze the specific linguistic features and
variations present in different dialectal varieties of the
Assamese language. This will involve collecting spoken
and written samples of the dialects, as well as
documenting the sociolinguistic contexts in which they
are used.
Sociolinguistic analysis will be conducted to examine
the social and cultural factors that influence the usage
patterns of dialectal varieties and the standard
Assamese language. This will involve analyzing
language attitudes, language maintenance efforts,
language shift trends, and the influence of education
and media on language use.
Data collected from field surveys, language
documentation, and sociolinguistic analysis will be
synthesized and analyzed to identify patterns, trends,
and sociolinguistic dynamics related to dialectal
varieties and the standard Assamese language. The
analysis will also explore the challenges faced by
dialect speakers in preserving their language heritage
in the face of language standardization and changing
sociolinguistic landscapes.
The research findings will contribute to a better
understanding of linguistic diversity in Assam,
shedding light on the complex relationship between
dialectal variations and the standard language. The
insights gained from this study will have implications
for language planning and preservation efforts,
helping to inform policies and initiatives aimed at
promoting and preserving linguistic diversity in Assam.
RESULTS
The analysis of data collected through field surveys,
language documentation, and sociolinguistic analysis
provides significant insights into the linguistic diversity
in Assam and the dynamics between dialectal varieties
and the standard Assamese language. The results
highlight the following key findings:
Dialectal Varieties:
Volume 03 Issue 07-2023
7
International Journal Of Literature And Languages
(ISSN
–
2771-2834)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
07
Pages:
05-08
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
6.
997
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
The study reveals the existence of multiple dialectal
varieties of the Assamese language across different
regions of Assam. These dialects exhibit variations in
phonetics, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation,
reflecting the diverse linguistic heritage of the state.
Standard Assamese Language:
The research identifies the standard Assamese
language as a linguistic anchor and a medium of
communication across various domains, including
education, media, and administration. It serves as a
common ground for interregional communication and
is considered prestigious in formal settings.
Language Attitudes and Shift:
The study explores the language attitudes and
preferences of Assamese speakers. While many
individuals value and identify with their dialectal
varieties, there is a growing trend of language shift,
particularly among the younger generation, towards
the standard Assamese language due to factors such
as education, urbanization, and media influence.
Challenges for Dialect Speakers:
The findings reveal the challenges faced by dialect
speakers in preserving their language heritage. The
dominance of the standard Assamese language in
formal domains, along with societal perceptions and
pressures, often marginalizes dialect speakers and
contributes to language erosion.
DISCUSSION
The discussion focuses on the implications of these
findings for linguistic diversity in Assam and the role of
the standard Assamese language. It explores the
tensions and dynamics between dialectal variations
and the standard language, emphasizing the need to
strike a balance between language standardization
and the preservation of linguistic heritage.
The study discusses the sociolinguistic factors
influencing language attitudes and language shift, such
as education, media exposure, and urbanization. It also
examines the role of language planning efforts and the
promotion of dialectal varieties in fostering language
revitalization and empowering dialect speakers.
The discussion highlights the importance of inclusive
language policies that recognize and accommodate
dialectal variations, promoting linguistic diversity as a
valuable cultural asset. It emphasizes the need for
educational programs, media representation, and
community initiatives that support dialect speakers
and encourage the maintenance and pride in their
linguistic traditions.
CONCLUSION
The comprehensive study on linguistic diversity in
Assam contributes to a better understanding of the
relationship between dialectal varieties and the
standard Assamese language. The research findings
underscore the importance of preserving and valuing
linguistic diversity while recognizing the role of the
standard language in fostering communication and
unity.
The study concludes that language planning efforts
should aim to strike a balance between the promotion
of the standard Assamese language and the
preservation of dialectal varieties. It advocates for
inclusive policies that empower dialect speakers,
promote bilingual education, and create platforms for
the celebration and revitalization of dialectal
traditions.
Volume 03 Issue 07-2023
8
International Journal Of Literature And Languages
(ISSN
–
2771-2834)
VOLUME
03
ISSUE
07
Pages:
05-08
SJIF
I
MPACT
FACTOR
(2021:
5.
705
)
(2022:
5.
705
)
(2023:
6.
997
)
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
By acknowledging and addressing the challenges faced
by dialect speakers, Assam can foster an environment
that appreciates linguistic diversity and promotes
cultural inclusivity. The research findings provide
valuable insights for language planners, educators,
policymakers, and community leaders involved in
language preservation and promotion efforts in
Assam.
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Choudhury, M. (2006). Linguistic identity and the
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4.
Goswami, B. (2013). Assamese language and script.
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Saikia, N. (2009). Language use in the border areas
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Gogoi, B. (2016). Language choice and identity
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