Nepalese Sign Language

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A language of Nepal

ISO 639-3
nsp
Alternate Names
Nepali Sign Language
Population

20,000 (2014 NDFN). Approximately 20,000 deaf signers out of 300,000 total deaf (2014 NDFN).

Location

Scattered.

Language Status

5 (Developing).

Classification
Deaf sign language
Dialects

Kathmandu, Pokhara. Developed from local and introduced signs. Related to Indian [ins] and Pakistan [pks] sign languages.

Language Use

Has been used on the floor of the national legislature by a Deaf member. All domains. All ages. Some comprehension of Nepali [npi] by those who have become literate; this varies considerably, and is more common in urban areas.

Language Development
Taught in primary and secondary schools. Magazines. Films. TV. Videos. Dictionary.
Language Resources
OLAC resources in and about Nepalese Sign Language
Other Comments

Approximately 20 NSL interpreters, most working under the NDFN or its member organizations. Hindu, Buddhist.