Early Times Report JAMMU, Dec 22: In a spirited call for cultural identity and linguistic preservation, Shiv Sena (UBT) Jammu and Kashmir unit chief, Manish Sahni, led a special program at the Shiv Sena office on Dogri Recognition Day. Under the banner "No Hello, No Namaste - only Jai Duggar," the party emphasized the need to elevate the status of Dogri language and integrate Dogra history into the educational curriculum. Addressing the gathering, Manish Sahni urged the community to unite and take the pledge of "Jai Duggar," emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting Dogri language and Dogra heritage. Highlighting the historical journey of Dogri language, Sahni noted that despite gaining recognition in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution in 2003 and becoming the official language of Jammu and Kashmir in 2020, Dogri has not reached its intended prominence. Sahni passionately called for the inclusion of Dogra history and tales of bravery in the school curriculum. He expressed concern that Dogri is only taught up to the primary level in government schools, with a lack of attention in private institutions, hindering its growth. Emphasizing Dogri as a symbol of linguistic identity, Sahni stressed the need to incorporate Dogri at all education levels, from school to university. He cautioned against the potential endangerment of Dogri if efforts are not made to prioritize its teaching and learning. Sahni underscored the importance of communicating in one's mother tongue, noting that while Dogri is thriving, there is a risk of it becoming endangered if not actively promoted and sustained. He linked the preservation of languages to the preservation of culture, civilization, and the nation. In his call to action, Sahni urged the community to make concerted efforts to promote Dogri language, art, and culture. He encouraged people to rally behind the cause and work towards preserving the rich heritage of the Dogras. The event saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Meenakshi Chhibber, President of the Mehila Wing, Vikas Bakshi, General Secretary, Rakesh Gupta, Chairman, Sanjeev Kohli and Balwant Singh, Vice Presidents, and Raj Singh, President of the Kanghar Wing, among others. As Shiv Sena(J&K) echoes "Jai Duggar," it brings to the forefront the urgency of safeguarding Dogri language and embedding Dogra history in the educational framework for a more culturally enriched future. |