Shadow Correspondent
Jammu, Sept 18 :
A grand inauguration ceremony for Hindi Fortnight was organized under the joint aegis of the Hindi Cell and the Department of Hindi and other Indian Languages at Central University of Jammu. The event was presided over by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, CUJ Prof. Sanjeev Jain. The chief guest for the occasion was Padma Shri Prof. Harmohinder Singh Bedi, alongside Prof. Yashwant Singh, Registrar Central University of Jammu, Prof. Vandana Sharma Dean of the Faculty of Languages, Prof. Bharat Bhushan Head of the Hindi and other Indian Languages Department, and Assistant Director of the Hindi Cell, Dr. Priyanjan.
The program commenced with a Saraswati Vandana performed by research scholars, followed by the lighting of the lamp and a grand welcome for the dignitaries on stage. In his address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjeev Jain extended his best wishes for Hindi Fortnight to all students and staff, stating that the development of Hindi cannot be achieved merely by celebrating Hindi Day or Fortnight; rather, it must be embraced with sincerity and willingness. He shared his experience from his visit to Japan, where information is always presented in the Japanese language, highlighting their love for their language.
He emphasized that we too must show loyalty and love for our Indian languages. He expressed happiness that despite being in the ‘G’ region like Jammu, 75% of the university’s work is conducted in Hindi, and he aims to reach 100% soon. He suggested organizing regular training programs in Hindi for all university students and staff and also advocated for the promotion of the local language, Dogri.
Chief Guest Padma Shri Prof. Harmohinder Singh Bedi remarked that the entire world is becoming aware of Hindi today. Hindi is the largest language in the Asian continent and embodies Indian culture and thought. He emphasized the growing recognition of Hindi as a global language, stressing that it is our moral responsibility as Indians to understand the importance of Hindi, as India cannot be fully prosperous without it. He noted that our new education policy has been prepared with this in mind, and Hindi is currently exemplary for everyone.
Prof. Yashwant Singh, Registrar, CUJ presented an account of the works being carried out in Hindi at the university and credited the achievements to Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjeev Jain.
Prof. Vandana Sharma stated in her speech that Hindi is a language that unites the world, and we must willingly accept it.
Department Head Prof. Bharat Bhushan introduced and welcomed all the guests, while Assistant Director of the Hindi Cell, Dr. Priyanjan, expressed gratitude. The entire program was conducted by Dr. Vandana Sharma, Assistant Professor in Hindi.
During the event, Dr. Vandana Verma, Principal of GDC Vijaypur, Dr. Shalu Samyal, Principal of GDC Bishnah, and Dr. Sujata Salathia, Principal of GDC Ghagwal, were honored with mementos. The Hindi journal of Central University of Jammu, “Uttar Vahini,” was also launched during the program. The inauguration ceremony concluded with the national anthem.
