An Analysis of the Current Linguistic Ecology in the Eastern Himalayan Region of China

Xie Yingying and Li Daqin

Chinese Journal of Language Policy and Planning ›› 2025, Vol. 10 ›› Issue (3) : 50-60.

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Chinese Journal of Language Policy and Planning ›› 2025, Vol. 10 ›› Issue (3) : 50-60. DOI: 10.19689/j.cnki.cn10-1361/h.20250305

An Analysis of the Current Linguistic Ecology in the Eastern Himalayan Region of China

  • Xie Yingying and Li Daqin
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Abstract

This study examines the current state of linguistic ecology in the eastern section of China’s Himalayan region, focusing on four key aspects: the distribution of linguistic diversity, the status quo of language endangerment, ecological differences of languages across the China-India line of actual control (LAC), and the uneven accumulation of linguistic research on either sides of the LAC. The findings highlight four major areas of insufficiency in the construction of a sustainable language ecology in this region: First, there is inadequacy in the documentation of languages within the region, and limited knowledge of the language ecology beyond China’s LAC. Second, the current approaches to researching borderland linguistic ecology are conceptually outdated, and the supply of reliable and up-to-date language data resources is inadequate. Third, the existing multilingual education model has structural deficiencies, resulting in a severe shortage of specialized language talent. Fourth, the development of resource platforms based on large language models is lagging, and the application of digital technologies in linguistic preservation and research remains limited. To address these challenges, the following recommendations are proposed: First, integrating domestic and international research findings to construct a comprehensive language knowledge spectrum and database for the eastern Himalayan region. Second, prioritizing surveys of living languages and cultural resources to expand the repository of linguistic resources. Third, reconstructing a more inclusive and functional multilingual education ecosystem to build up reserves of specialized language talents. Finally, establishing a dynamic monitoring mechanism to safeguard borderland linguistic ecology and enhance national border language capacity.

Key words

Eastern Himalayas / language investigation / borderland language ecology / cross - line languages

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Xie Yingying and Li Daqin. An Analysis of the Current Linguistic Ecology in the Eastern Himalayan Region of China[J]. Chinese Journal of Language Policy and Planning. 2025, 10(3): 50-60 https://doi.org/10.19689/j.cnki.cn10-1361/h.20250305

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