LANGUAUGES

1: Why have regional languages been promoted by the Pakistan government since 1947? [7]

Ans: One of the reasons was that it was felt by the Pakistan government that in order to preserve the
work done by the famous writers and poets in different languages, the languages should be promoted.
The literature they produced must be kept alive for the coming generations. Works like of Munir Niazi,
Atta Shad, Ashfaq Ahmad and others in areas of regional languages should be protected. So because of
this thinking, govt. of Pakistan had made every possible attempt to promote the regional languages.

Secondly, some languages played an important role in the history of Pakistan. For example, Pushto
literature had played a very important part in creating opposition to British rule and in the movement
for independence. There to elevate the standard of such languages, govt. of Pakistan has tried to
promote the regional languages since 1947.

Thirdly, at the time of partition, there were some languages that were at the brink of decline. Like
Balochi, which was at its decline at the time of partition. So govt. felt that it should be kept alive and not
lost forever. Hence the language was promoted.

2: Why did Pakistan choose Urdu as its national language in 1947? [7]

Ans: One of the reasons why Urdu became the national language in Pakistan is its long history. It was
widely used in Mughal period and dates back as far as the sultans of Delhi. In its early stages it was used
by the Muslim armies and became widely spoken and understood in many parts of the sub-continent. So
it was natural that such a well-known and established language would be chosen.

Another reason for Urdu being chosen was its high status. Some of the finest early poets such as Amir
Khusrou wrote in Urdu and Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s school at Aligarh became a centre for Urdu study.
Many religious books, including the Quran, were translated into Urdu. So it was considered an important
language with a rich literary tradition.

Perhaps the major reason for Urdu being chosen was the fact that it was so closely associated with the
Pakistan Movement. Sir Syed Ahmad Khan supported it and the Muslim league was formed not only to
defend Muslim interests, but also to protect Urdu. The Quaid-e-Azam was particularly keen to promote
Urdu as he saw it was it as a unifying force. Since Pakistan was a new country, it was very appropriate to
pick a language which had played a part in unifying Muslims.

3: How successful has been the promotion of local languages in Pakistan been since 1947? Give
reasons for your answer. [14]

Ans: Since 1947, the Pakistan government has taken strong measures for the development and
promotion of its regional languages, Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto and Balochi, though some others like Brohi,
Persian, Kashmiri and Siraiki are also spoken.

Punjabi, which is widely understood in Punjab, Azad Kashmir and few areas of N.W.F.P, has been
promoted by the Govt. through media. Punjabi films, dramas and theatres have been become very
popular. Newspaper, journals and magazines have also been very significant in promoting Punjabi
culture & literature. New poets and writers like Munir Niazi, Ahmad Rahi, [Link], Ashfaq Ahmad,
Bano Qudsia and others have produce master pieces of poetry and writings in Punjabi. The Holy Quran
has also been translated into Punjabi by [Link] Faiq. Punjabi is taught up to MA level in Punjab University
and Punjab Academy has translated and produced many books in Punjabi. This way round its promotion
is quite significant.

Pashto, language spoken in N.W.F.P, has also been given due important in promotion and development.
Peshawar University was established after 3 year of independence where Pashto is taught up to MA
level. Pashto Academy was set up in 1954 which has prepared a well-renowned dictionary under
Maulana [Link]. Pashto dramas and films have also gained importance. Pashto papers, journals and
books have also helped Pashto language to promote. New writers & poets have also added to this
contribution by producing classic poetry and stories Pashto typewriter has also been prepared. Hence
Pashto has greatly been promoted over the year.

Sindhi, spoken in Sindh, have also been nourished and nurtured through promotion and development
since 1947. Sindhi literary board was set up in 1948 which had produced many books with coordination
of poets like F.N Bux and G. Allone. Sindhi library in Karachi has helped Sindhi literature spread. Many
folk writings have also been produced. Bazm-e-Talib-ul-Muola have been set up which translates books
into Sindhi. Sindhiology Dept. in Jamshoro University and development & promotion of Sindhi literature
and culture through modern means. Example: TV, radio, newspapers e.t.c. After 1947 large numbers of
Urdu speaking refugees were settled in Sindh. Sindhi- Speaking people feared their language and culture
were being destroyed. After riots in 1972, in support of preserving their language and culture, the govt.
guaranteed the special importance of the Sindhi language.

Balochi language which was at its decline before partition was given special attention for its promotion.
Radio Pak Karachi now also broadcast in Balochi. Quetta TV centre have been producing marvellous
dramas to help, develop and translate many books to Balochi and new poets like Atta Shad and writers
have greatly contributed towards its promotion. Balochi literary Association was set up and there are
now weekly and monthly magazines published in the language. Thus, Pakistan has been very
successful in promotion of its local languages. These languages have developed a lot due to Government
policies designed for this purpose. On the other hand, poets & writers have also aided in this promotion
and development.

Q Source a type question.

Urdu became the national language after Independence in 1947. The Quaid was keen to promote
Urdu as he saw it as an important unifying force in the new country. However, he also recognised the
importance of regional languages and was keen to promote them. One of these was Balochi.

4: How has the Pakistan government promoted the development of Balochi since 1947? [4]
(N2010/P1/2a)

Examiner Comments: Most candidates were able to score 3 or 4 marks in part (a) on the regional
language of Balochi.
Marking Scheme: Candidates might refer to: Radio Pakistan Karachi broadcasts in Balochi, Balochi
Literary Association set up, weekly and monthly magazines published, Quetta TV station, development
of Balochi literature, writers and poets e.g. Atta Shad, Ishq Shamin, Gul Khan Nazir and Azad Jamal Din.