Pashto language moot: Call for promoting indigenous literature

QUETTA:

Balochistan Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch has said that the promotion of languages and literature is inevitable for the social development of any nation.

“Literature creates harmony and discourages hatred among people,” he said, addressing a three-day international seminar on Pashto.

Baloch urged the youth to preserve their mother tongue. “Language is a blessing. Youth should read, write and work hard for the promotion of their languages.”

Promotion of language and literature is very important for the social development of any nation, he said, warning about the cultural annihilation. “In this 21st century, languages and nations should not die, as now nobody wants to become a Red Indian,” Baloch observed.

The CM also announced a grant of Rs2 million for the organisers of the international conference.

He said the government has increased the annual funds of Balochi, Barahui and Pashto academies so that the languages of Balochistan could be promoted.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 15^th,  2015.