Karnataka Tulu Language Committee Explores Andhra Pradesh's Urdu Implementation Model
A high-level study committee appointed by the Karnataka state government recently undertook a significant visit to Andhra Pradesh. The committee's primary objective is to examine the legal procedures and implementation framework required for declaring Tulu as an additional official language within Karnataka. This visit was strategically planned to gather practical insights and learn from the successful implementation of Urdu as an additional official language in Andhra Pradesh.
Two-Day Intensive Consultation in Andhra Pradesh
The seven-member study committee, led by KM Gayatri, the state director of the Kannada and culture department, conducted a comprehensive two-day visit on January 19 and 20. The delegation included Taranath Gatti Kapikad, president of the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy, who played a crucial role in the interactions. The team focused their activities in Amaravati and various offices located in the NTR district, aiming to collect detailed information and firsthand experiences.
High-Level Meetings and Information Gathering
On the first day of their visit, the committee held a pivotal meeting with Vijay Anand, the chief secretary of the Andhra Pradesh government, at the state secretariat. During this discussion, Vijayanand highlighted the positive outcomes and robust support system that followed the declaration of Urdu as an additional official language in Andhra Pradesh. He commended the Karnataka state government's proactive initiative to grant similar status to Tulu, emphasizing the importance of linguistic diversity and cultural preservation.
The committee's agenda included visits to several key offices to understand the multifaceted implementation process. They engaged with officials from the legislative assembly speaker's office, the minority welfare department, the chairman of the Andhra Pradesh Urdu Academy, and the director of the Andhra Pradesh Urdu Language Development Board. These interactions provided valuable insights into the administrative, educational, and social frameworks established post-declaration to promote and develop Urdu.
Field Visits and Practical Observations
The second day involved a series of field visits to observe the ground-level implementation of language policies. The committee met with the zonal commissioner of the Amaravati Municipal Corporation and visited local police stations to understand how official language status affects public services and documentation. Additionally, they inspected local Urdu and English medium schools to assess educational integration and language teaching methodologies.
Further meetings were held with the chairman of the Andhra Pradesh Telugu Language Development Authority and G Lakshmish, the district collector of NTR district. These discussions focused on coordination between different language authorities and the role of local administration in supporting language development initiatives.
Promoting Tulu's Rich Heritage
Throughout the visit, Taranath Gatti Kapikad took the opportunity to brief Andhra Pradesh officials on the historical, literary, and cultural significance of the Tulu language. He elaborated on its ancient roots, vibrant oral traditions, and contemporary literary contributions, underscoring the need for official recognition to safeguard and promote this linguistic heritage.
Expected Outcomes and Future Steps
The committee is now compiling its findings from this informative visit. A comprehensive study report detailing the legal, administrative, and practical aspects of implementing Tulu as an additional official language is expected to be submitted to the Karnataka government in the coming days. This report will likely include recommendations based on the Andhra Pradesh model, tailored to Karnataka's unique linguistic landscape and administrative capabilities.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition of regional languages in India's federal structure, aiming to empower linguistic communities while ensuring efficient governance and cultural preservation.
