Muzaffarabad,(Parliament Times):Minister for Environment, Kashmir Cause, Arts and Languages, Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Ms. Nabila Ayub Khan, has stated that the government is taking measures to promote mother tongues in Azad Kashmir. Under Article 24 of the Constitution of Azad Kashmir, the promotion of mother tongues and literature is the government’s responsibility. In this regard, the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Cultural Academy must take immediate steps.
?She announced that for the first time in the history of Azad Kashmir, “Pahari Day” will be celebrated under government patronage on April 14. Additionally, “Gojri Day” will be observed on May 5, “Kudal Shahi Language Day” on June 10, and “International Mother Language Day” as well as “Kashmiri Language Day” on February 21. She expressed these views during a meeting with officials of the AJ&K Cultural Academy. Director of the Academy, Dr. Raja Muhammad Sajjad Khan, briefed the Minister on the academy’s progress.
?The Minister emphasized that the promotion and preservation of language, literature, culture, and art are essential. She noted that our culture is deeply linked with mother tongues, making their promotion vital. Furthermore, she highlighted that folk literature is vanishing, necessitating urgent action. She added that measures should also be taken for other languages spoken in Azad Kashmir, including Shina, Pashto, and Dogri.
?Ms. Nabila Ayub Khan stated that the international recognition and stature Allah has bestowed upon Pakistan today require us to offer prayers of gratitude and work with renewed dedication in our respective fields. She stressed that our primary needs are unity, harmony, and socio-economic and political stability. The Minister remarked that the success of the Pakistan Armed Forces in the battle for truth (Ma’raka-e-Haq) has granted Pakistan a decisive role among the nations of the world, making it a guarantor of global peace.
?She concluded by saying that the bond between the people of Kashmir and Pakistan is eternal and unbreakable. She urged the international community to facilitate a resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir conflict in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.