JAMMU: Rajasthan is set to begin teaching in local languages in preschool classes across nine districts from the next academic session, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Education Minister Madan Dilawar announced on Wednesday.
This initiative by Rajasthan State Council of Educational Research and Training (RSCERT) aims to bridge language barriers in education by teaching in dialects such as Marwari and Mewati, starting from Bal Vatikas. The programme, which has been piloted in Sirohi and Dungarpur, is planned for expansion to 25 districts by 2026.
"The introduction of local languages at the foundational stage will enhance comprehension and cultural identity among students," Dilawar said at an event in Jaipur, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in curriculum development.
Contrastingly, in Jammu and Kashmir, local languages including Bhaderwahi, Sarazi, and even the official language Kashmiri are facing neglect in educational systems. The Chenab Times Foundation has raised concerns about the disparity, urging the Jammu and Kashmir government to take immediate steps towards revitalizing these languages in schools.
Anzer Ayoob, President of the Chenab Times Foundation, highlighted the urgent need for action: "While Rajasthan moves forward with integrating local dialects into education, the cultural and linguistic heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly languages like Kashmiri, are at risk. We call on the J&K government to follow suit and ensure that our languages do not fade away."
A recent report by The Chenab Times detailed the Kashmiri Language Union's plea for the inclusion of Kashmiri in schools across the Chenab Valley, pointing out the stark contrast with only less than 20 schools offering it as an optional subject. The Union's memorandum to Education Minister Sakeena Itoo stressed the constitutional rights under Article 350A for linguistic minorities, advocating for Kashmiri's integration into the curriculum as per NEP 2020's guidelines on multilingual education.
The memorandum also highlighted the need for qualified Kashmiri language teachers, suggesting a recruitment scheme similar to Rehbar-e-Zaban to fill the educational gaps. The Union's demands extend to making Kashmiri a compulsory subject in grades 9 and 10 and expanding its teaching to regions outside the Kashmir Division with significant Kashmiri-speaking populations, including Doda, Ramban, and Kishtwar.
Despite these efforts, the progress in Jammu and Kashmir has been slow, with local languages struggling for recognition and inclusion in educational settings. This situation contrasts sharply with Rajasthan's proactive approach to language education, raising questions about cultural preservation and educational equity.
The Chenab Times Foundation continues to advocate for systemic changes in Jammu and Kashmir to support and preserve its rich linguistic tapestry, urging governmental action to match the educational advancements seen in other states like Rajasthan.
