Mohd. Yaseen Dogri Day serves as a poignant reminder of the rich cultural heritage embedded within the Dogri language, integral to the identity of Jammu and Kashmir. However, this occasion also highlights pressing challenges, notably the influence of certain individuals who, despite minimal contributions, assert significant control over the benefits and recognition associated with the language. Their dominance often sidelines genuine contributors, stifling the organic growth and preservation of Dogri. This issue is further compounded by an apparent lack of institutional support. Despite official recognition and policy declarations, tangible government initiatives for Dogri remain scarce. Educational institutions face a dire shortage of resources; textbooks are outdated or unavailable, and trained educators proficient in Dogri are few and far between. This systemic neglect has contributed to a decline in the language’s prominence, especially among younger generations. Prof. Lalit Magotra, President of Dogri Sanstha Jammu, aptly observes, “From textbooks to primary school education, on ground, nothing is going on.” The consequences of these challenges are profound. Talented writers, poets, and artists often find themselves deprived of the resources and platforms they need to flourish. The concentration of influence in the hands of a few demoralizes emerging contributors, leading to disengagement and a loss of creativity. The superficial contributions of these influential individuals misrepresent the depth and richness of Dogri, causing long-term harm to its cultural and literary legacy. Favoritism and exclusivity practiced by these gatekeepers create divisions within the Dogri community, further hindering its growth. Despite these challenges, it is important to acknowledge the well-intentioned efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir Government toward the promotion of Dogri. The government has expressed its commitment to preserving and nurturing the language, but the lack of decisive action has hindered tangible progress. A significant issue lies within the bureaucracy, where there is a lack of personnel with deep roots in the Dogri community or a genuine understanding of the language’s cultural importance. Many of those in key decision-making positions are disconnected from the people who have tirelessly worked to promote Dogri for decades. These long-standing advocates of the language, who have stood tall for its preservation and growth, are often overlooked in the decision-making process, which has led to ineffective policies and implementation. The education system is a crucial area that needs immediate attention. While the government has recognized Dogri’s importance, it is essential that education planners seek advice from experts and activists who have dedicated their lives to the language. However, this has not been the case thus far. The lack of intention to involve such experts has meant that the strategies in place often fail to address the core issues facing the language. Without the involvement of those who have actively contributed to Dogri’s preservation, any reforms made will likely fall short of their potential. Committees and task forces should be established to address the specific areas where Dogri is needed the most, such as in schools and universities or any other area. These committees should be formed with the input of individuals who have consistently worked towards the betterment of the language. The inclusion of self-proclaimed individuals, who may not have the proper experience or understanding of Dogri, could jeopardize these initiatives. It is vital to ensure that those who have a genuine commitment to the language are given the responsibility to lead such efforts. Otherwise, the future of Dogri could be in jeopardy, with its growth and preservation reduced to mere tokenism. To preserve and promote Dogri, it is essential to address these challenges head-on. A multi-pronged approach involving both the government and the community is required to ensure that Dogri regains its rightful place in the cultural and linguistic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. The government must transition from policy declarations to actionable initiatives. This includes integrating Dogri into the educational curriculum, making it a compulsory subject at the primary level and offering it as an elective in higher education. Adequate resources, such as up-to-date textbooks, learning materials, and digital resources, should be developed and distributed. In addition, training programs for educators should be initiated, ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to teach the language effectively. The Dogri community must also work towards creating a transparent and inclusive framework for recognizing contributions. Genuine contributors-writers, poets, and artists-should be celebrated for their efforts, regardless of their social or professional affiliations. This will encourage more individuals to actively engage in preserving and promoting the language. By fostering an environment where all contributors feel valued, the community can combat the monopolization of recognition by a select few, ensuring a more diverse and representative cultural landscape. Digital platforms offer immense potential to revitalize Dogri. Initiatives such as creating digital libraries, where Dogri literature, music, and art can be made accessible online, will help broaden the reach of the language. Developing online learning resources, including interactive courses and tutorials, will attract young learners and make Dogri more accessible to a global audience. Social media campaigns can also play a crucial role in raising awareness and engaging the youth. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook can be leveraged to share Dogri content, from literature to folk music, helping foster appreciation for the language and encouraging active participation from younger generations. While institutional support is crucial, the community’s role in preserving Dogri cannot be overstated. Active participation at the grassroots level can create a sustainable impact. Regular events such as poetry readings, folk music performances, and art exhibitions can provide a platform for emerging artists, helping them showcase their work and gain recognition. Mentorship programs, where experienced writers and artists guide aspiring talents, can ensure the transfer of knowledge and skills, ensuring that the language’s legacy is carried forward by new voices. To address the issue of misrepresentation, it is important to promote a culture of collaboration and mutual respect within the Dogri community. Constructive dialogue and feedback mechanisms can help identify areas of improvement and ensure that all contributors are valued for their efforts. By fostering a spirit of inclusivity and transparency, the community can counteract the negative effects of exclusivity and favoritism, creating a more equitable environment for growth and innovation. On this Dogri Day, let us collectively pledge to preserve and promote the richness of the Dogri language. By supporting genuine contributors, holding institutions accountable, and leveraging the power of technology, we can ensure that Dogri remains vibrant and relevant in the modern era. As Prof. Lalit Magotra emphasizes, actions must move beyond paper to create a tangible impact. Only then can we truly honor the legacy of Dogri and secure its place in the hearts and minds of future generations. (The writer is a National Scholarship and Fellowship holder from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India)
