Jammu, April 22: Education, Social Welfare, and Health Minister Sakeena Itoo stated that languages are the custodians of history, identity, and culture while delivering the keynote address at a one-day seminar on “Relation of Urdu with Regional Languages” held at University of Jammu.

The seminar was organized by the Department of Urdu in collaboration with the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language. Emphasizing Urdu’s evolution, the Minister noted its deep connection with regional languages like Kashmiri, Dogri, Gujri, and Pahari, describing it as a bridge that unites diverse communities.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting multilingual education and preserving linguistic heritage, urging scholars and students to actively contribute to research and revitalization efforts. The Minister also released an Urdu magazine on the occasion.
Vice Chancellor Umesh Rai highlighted the role of languages in strengthening cultural ties and national integration, while NCPUL Director Shams Equbal stressed the importance of regional languages under NEP-2020.
Academicians and writers, including Quddos Javed and Khalid Hussain, also shared insights on India’s multilingual and multicultural fabric.