Protect linguistic heritage of J&K: Dr Farooq

Srinagar : On International Mother Language Day, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, President Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting the linguistic heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
In a statement issued here on Friday Dr Abdullah appealed people to cherish and proudly use their mother tongues, highlighting that a mother tongue is not just a communication tool but a vital part of cultural identity and memory. Dr. Abdullah stressed the need for mother tongues to be the primary medium of instruction in schools, particularly during early childhood, as language plays a crucial role in shaping thought and belonging. He celebrated the rich legacy of the Kashmiri language, noting its classical literature, poetry, and the contributions of poets and scholars throughout history, describing it as a repository of collective wisdom. In addition to Kashmiri, he called for the protection and promotion of other regional languages such as Dogri, Pahari, Gojri, Punjabi, and Shina, recognizing their significance in the cultural fabric of the region. He appealed families to foster an environment where their mother tongues are spoken, urging parents to ensure that their children inherit the beauty of their native languages, which should be a source of pride rather than hesitation.