Q: How successful has been the promotion of local languages in Pakistan been since 1947? Give reasons for your answer. [14]

ANS: Since 1947, the Pakistan government has took strong measures for the development and promotion of its regional languages, Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto and Balochi, though some others like Brohi, Persian, Kashmiri and Siraiki are also

spoken.

Punjabi, which is widely understood in Punjab, Azad Kashmir and few areas of N.W.F.P, has been promoted by the Govt. through media. Punjabi films, dramas and theatres have been become very popular. Newspaper, journals and magazines

have also been very significant in promoting Punjabi culture & literature. New poets and writers like Munir Niazi, Ahmad Rahi, S.Kunjahi, Ashfaq Ahmad, Bano Qudsia and others have produce master pieces of poetry and writings in Punjabi. The Holy Quran has also been translated into Punjabi by M.Ali Faiq. Punjabi is taught up to MA level in Punjab University and Punjab Academy has translated and produced many books in Punjabi. This way round its promotion is quite significant.

Pashto, language spoken in N.W.F.P, has also been given due important in promotion and development. Peshawar University was established after 3 year of independence where Pashto is taught up to MA level. Pashto Academy was set up in 1954 which has prepared a well-renowned dictionary under Maulana A.Qadir. Pashto dramas and films have also gained importance. Pashto papers, journals and books have also helped Pashto language to promote. New writers & poets have also added to this contribution by producing classic poetry and stories Pashto typewriter has also been prepared. Hence Pashto has greatly been promoted over the year.

Sindhi, spoken in Sindh, have also been nourished and nurtured through promotion and development since 1947. Sindhi literary board was set up in 1948 which had produced many books with coordination of poets like F.N Bux and G. Allone. Sindhi library in Karachi has helped Sindhi literature spread. Many folk

writings have also been produced. Bazm-e-Talib-ul-Muola have been set up which translates books into Sindhi. Sindhiology Dept. in Jamshoro University and development & promotion of Sindhi literature and culture through modern means.

Example: TV, radio, newspapers e.t.c.

Balochi language which was at its decline before partition was given special attention for its promotion. Radio Pak Karachi now also broadcast in Balochi. Quetta TV centre have been producing marvelous dramas to help, develop and translate many books to Balochi and new poets like Atta Shad and writers have

greatly contributed towards its promotion.

Thus, Pakistan has been very successful in promotion of its local languages. These languages have developed a lot due to Government policies designed for this purpose. On the other hand, poets & writers have also aided in this promotion and

development.

BY. Sohail Khan Luni
visit: sohailkhanluni.blogspot.com