Introduction of Santali:

Santali is a recognized language subject and holds the status of the mother tongue of the Santal community, one of the most prominent indigenous groups in India. The Santals are the third largest tribal community in the country in terms of population. However, in terms of cultural discipline, social organization, and adherence to traditional values, they are often regarded as one of the most exemplary tribal communities in India. Santali is an Indian language of significant historical and cultural importance. It belongs to the Austroasiatic language family, specifically the Munda subgroup. The language gained formal recognition when it was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in January 2004, thereby becoming one of the officially recognized languages of India. This inclusion marked a significant milestone in the preservation and promotion of indigenous languages and cultures in the country.

            The study of Santali not only promotes linguistic diversity but also fosters a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage, oral traditions, and worldview of the Santal people.

About Department:

The Department of Santali was established in 2014, marking a significant milestone in the academic recognition and institutional support for the linguistic, literary, and cultural heritage of the Santali community. This establishment was a major step toward the preservation and promotion of the indigenous identity of one of India’s largest tribal groups. Initially introduced as a General Course, the department expanded its academic offerings by launching Honours Courses in 2018, responding to the growing demand and interest among students in pursuing in-depth studies in the Santali language and culture.

            In line with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Santali Department has adopted a multidisciplinary and inclusive approach to education. The department has integrated the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into both its core curriculum and extended academic activities, reflecting its commitment to building a socially responsible and culturally aware academic environment.

            The faculty members of the department go beyond teaching subject-specific papers. They actively contribute to a wide range of common courses including Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC), Multidisciplinary Courses (MDC), Value-Added Courses (VAC), Community Service, and Internship Programs, thereby fostering a holistic learning experience for students. Moreover, the department embraces multidimensional and experiential teaching methods, deeply rooted in indigenous pedagogical practices. These include Galoch Akhra (Discussion Akhra), Lakchar Akhra (Cultural Akhra), Saohet Akhra (Literature Akhra), Village Visits, Excursions, Industry–Student Interaction Programs, and Project Work—both within the department and across common courses. This approach not only enhances student engagement but also bridges the gap between academic learning and community realities.

Faculty Members:

1. Mr. Aampa Kumar Hembrom – Joined in August 2014, Mr. Hembrom serves as the Head of the Department. He has actively participated in social activities, including organizing a National Level Seminar on "Santals on the Margin: Challenges and Opportunities" in March 2017. As Head of the Department, he has worked tirelessly for the tribal community and led multiple programs in collaboration with the Majhi Pargana System. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he authored Model Santal Village, a book focused on community development. He also established the Centre for Studies of Tribal Development in 2022, where he currently serves as Centre In-Charge. Additionally, Mr. Hembrom is the Coordinator for the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan unit and serves on various committees at the college.
2. Mr. Shaym Charan Tudu – Joined in February 2019, Mr. Tudu is a prominent figure in Santali literature and contributes significantly to the preservation and promotion of Santali language and literature. He has written and translated 30 books and edited five literary journals. He has also won Yuve Puraskar (Sahitya akademi) in 2012 before joining this college. He has been instrumental in organizing literary programs and fostering young Santali writers.
3. Mrs. Anjali Dolai – Joined in October 2020, Mrs. Dolai is an active participant in initiatives related to student development and the promotion of indigenous culture.

The Holistic Development of Students and SDGs: The Holistic Development of Students and SDGs, led by Mr. Aampa Kumar Hembrom at GGDC Salboni, integrates Sustainable Development Goals into student growth. It fosters employment and entrepreneurship skills, social responsibility towards marginalized communities, and an environment-friendly mindset through academic and community activities. This initiative aims to prepare students as responsible, sustainable citizens.

Holistic Development of Village and SDGs:The Holistic Development of Village and SDGs, led by Mr. Aampa Kumar Hembrom through his book Model Santal Village, promotes community-centered development rooted in Santal culture. It focuses on three dimensions: economic empowerment for all, preservation of core Santal cultural values, and sustainable infrastructure development. This model aims to balance progress with cultural continuity in Santal villages.

Promotion and Conservation of Indigenous Culture - GGDC Salboni has taken initiatives for the promotion and conservation of indigenous culture. This initiative is carried out under the guidance of the Department of Santali of this college and was also led by Mr. Aampa Kumar Hembrom. As part of this initiative, a separate center (Centre of Studies for Tribal Development) and a museum (Tribal Museum) have been established on the college campus.

More details about SDGs Click Here

Santali Study Material on Youtube

From the Desk of HOD

Educational institutions are the foundational centers for human resource development in any society. They play a critical role in shaping the future by nurturing students to become responsible, skilled, and socially aware individuals. The foremost objective of such institutions is the holistic development of students, encompassing intellectual, emotional, ethical, physical, and social dimensions. As a government institution under the Government of West Bengal, the Government General Degree College, Salboni bears a significant responsibility to align its vision and efforts with national development priorities. It is imperative for the college to actively support key initiatives such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly through their localization (LSDGs)—and the broader vision of the ‘Developed India Mission 2047’. By embedding these goals into its academic framework, extracurricular activities, and community engagement programs, the college not only strengthens student development but also plays a meaningful role in the process of nation-building. The Department of Santali has been at the forefront of implementing these goals, integrating indigenous knowledge systems, promoting inclusive education, and initiating outreach activities that contribute to both student empowerment and the sustainable development of surrounding communities.

Aampa Kumar Hembrom

Assistant Professor

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Teaching Faculties:

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Aampa Kumar Hembrom

Assistant Professor

M.A.

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Shyam C. Tudu

Asst. Professor

M.A.

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Dr. Anjali Dolai

Assistant Professor

M.A., M.Phil., Ph.D.

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Non-Teaching Faculties:

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