Jammu: Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the preservation and promotion of regional languages, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science and Technology, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, and ARI and Trainings, Satish Sharma on Monday released four Dogri books at a function organised by the Dogri Bhasha Academy at K.L. Saigal Hall of the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages in Jammu.
The books released by the minister included Manush translated by Rattan Basotra, Atte Dian Chidiyan authored by Chandu Bhau, Sanehra Kall by Sunita Bhadwal and Khidde Moti by Mohan Lal.
Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma said language plays a vital role in preserving cultural identity and heritage.
He said the promotion of mother tongues such as Dogri is essential for maintaining the rich cultural legacy of Jammu and Kashmir and for nurturing a sense of pride and belonging among younger generations.
The minister appreciated the sustained efforts of the Dogri Bhasha Academy in nurturing literary talent and creating meaningful platforms for writers and scholars.
He said literature serves as a powerful medium to reflect social values, traditions and contemporary issues, and that such initiatives contribute significantly towards strengthening the cultural fabric of society.
Highlighting the government’s vision, Satish Sharma said special focus is being laid on encouraging regional languages through institutional support, literary activities and youth engagement programmes.
He stressed the need for greater outreach to connect young people with their linguistic roots and inspire them to contribute to the growth of indigenous languages.
Congratulating the authors, the minister praised their dedication and contribution to Dogri literature and said such works not only preserve the language but also document the socio-cultural narratives of the region for future generations.
The function was presided over by noted writer Nirmal Vinod.
Among others present were Secretary, JKAACL, Harvinder Kour, Arvinder Singh Aman and founder of the Dogri Bhasha Academy, Yashpaul Nirmal.
In his welcome address, Yashpaul Nirmal highlighted the objectives and activities of the Dogri Bhasha Academy and its contribution over the past decade towards promoting Dogri language and literature.
In his presidential remarks, Nirmal Vinod appreciated the Academy for its continued efforts to strengthen Dogri literary culture and extended support for such initiatives.
Harvinder Kour and Arvinder Singh Aman also praised the Academy and the authors for their contribution to Dogri literature.
During the event, research papers were presented by Ashu Sharma, Deepika Mehra, Chanchal Bhasin and Rattan Basotra, which were well received by the audience.
The authors also shared their literary experiences and recited excerpts from their works.
The programme was conducted by General Secretary of Dogri Bhasha Academy Rajinder Ranjha, who also presented the vote of thanks.
A large number of writers, intellectuals, media persons and literature enthusiasts attended the function.
