Bihar Government Announces Major Push for Urdu Language with 2,000 New Translators
In a significant move to strengthen the use of Urdu as the second official language of Bihar, the state government has unveiled plans to appoint at least 2,000 Urdu translators. This initiative aims to integrate the language more effectively into the daily functioning of government departments, spanning from the secretariat down to the block level, ensuring smoother administrative processes and better public service delivery.
Recruitment and Training Through Staff Selection Commission
According to Perwez Alam, the director of the state-level Urdu Directorate, the recruitment of these translators will be conducted via the Staff Selection Commission (SSC). Selected candidates will undergo comprehensive training before being deployed across various government offices. This step is designed to equip them with the necessary skills to handle official documentation, communication, and other linguistic tasks efficiently, thereby enhancing the overall governance framework in Bihar.
Revival of Jashn-e-Urdu Festival After Eight-Year Gap
In addition to the translator appointments, the Urdu Directorate is set to revive the Jashn-e-Urdu programme, which has been dormant for eight years. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has given his approval for this revival, highlighting the government's commitment to celebrating the vibrancy and cultural richness of the Urdu language. The festival will serve as a platform to showcase Urdu literature, poetry, and arts, fostering greater appreciation and usage among the public.
Urdu Translators' Role in Disaster Management and Welfare Schemes
During an interactive session with Urdu enthusiasts and creative individuals in Gaya on Tuesday evening, Director Alam emphasized the crucial role that Urdu translators already play in various official spheres. He noted that these translators are instrumental in disaster management efforts and the execution of government welfare schemes, ensuring that information reaches all communities effectively. Their availability and expertise contribute significantly to inclusive governance and emergency response.
Bihar's Unique Position with Independent Urdu Directorate
Bihar stands out as the only state in India to have an independent directorate dedicated solely to the promotion of Urdu. This unique institutional setup underscores the state's proactive approach to linguistic diversity and cultural preservation. The interactive programme in Gaya saw participation from notable figures such as MA Kazmi, a retired IPS officer, Urdu poet Ainul Haq, fiction writer Syed Ahmed Quadri, and critic Asad Zahir, who all shared insights on enhancing Urdu's presence.
Public Cooperation and Translation of Quality Material
Director Alam called for public cooperation in promoting Urdu across Bihar, stressing the importance of community involvement in language initiatives. MA Kazmi advocated for the translation of high-quality material from other languages into Urdu, which could enrich the literary landscape and make valuable knowledge more accessible to Urdu-speaking populations. This collaborative effort aims to bolster Urdu's status and utility in both official and cultural contexts.
About the Author: Abdul Qadir is a renowned journalist with extensive experience covering ultra-left extremism, political dynamics, and the education system. With over 30 years in journalism, he has been actively involved in social, literary, and cultural activities and has taught Economics at a Post Graduate College in Bihar.
