Three-day conference of Linguistics and Folklore begins at AMU
ALIGARH : The three-day 10th All India Conference of Linguistics and Folklore on “Translation across Cultures in Multilingual India with respect to NEP 2020”, hosted by the Department of Linguistics, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), in collaboration with the Punjabi Linguistics Association, Patiala, the Central Institute of Indian Languages, and the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, today began with the AMU Vice Chancellor, Prof Naima Khatoon presiding over the inaugural function.
In her presidential remarks, Prof. Naima Khatoon stressed the need to view translation not just as a process but as a tool for promoting inclusivity and equity in a multilingual society. She stated that translation supports the objectives of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by facilitating the spread of knowledge and protecting linguistic diversity in the country.
She called for innovative approaches and expertise to advance the field of translation and nurture a multilingual society.
Delivering the inaugural address virtually, the guest speaker, Shri S. K. Barnwal (IAS), Additional Secretary, Ministry of Education, Government of India, emphasized the importance of promoting multilingualism through mother tongue, which has been made a cornerstone of the NEP.
He noted that language is not merely a means of communication but a repository of knowledge and culture, which is especially crucial for a linguistically diverse country like India. He also underscored the importance of translation across cultures for societal development and recognized its role in enriching national education, historical values and helping in carving good policies and schemes.
Another guest speaker, Shri Vipin Kumar (IAS), Additional Secretary, Ministry of Education, Government of India virtually addressed the participants, and emphasized the importance of preserving regional languages in India.
He highlighted the need for inclusivity in education and underscored the role of conference in fostering cultural understanding and celebrating the linguistic diversity. He advocated for the promotion of multilingualism through translation.
He appreciated Aligarh Muslim University for being among the firsts to implement the National Education Policy 2020.
Prof. Harish Narang, while delivering a keynote address, underscored linguistics as a foundational discipline essential for humanity even before mathematics and science. Emphasizing the crucial role of language in human communication and identity, he stressed that preserving language is vital for maintaining our sense of self.
With reference to India’s rich multilingual landscape, Prof. Narang expressed optimism about achieving significant strides in developing India into a more accommodating society by promoting multilingualism through translation.
Earlier, welcoming the guest speakers, Prof. M. J. Warsi, Chairman, Department of Linguistics, highlighted the crucial role of translation in a linguistically diverse country like India, where it has historically served as a bridge between people. He acknowledged the importance of NEP 2020, noting both its essential nature and the challenges it presents.
Prof. Bhupinder Singh Khaira, President, Punjabi Linguistic Association highlighted the broad linguistic impact of the Punjabi language and emphasized that the Punjabi Language Association represents not only Punjab but all regions where Punjabi is spoken, thus promoting a harmonious integration of culture and heritage throughout the country.
The Dean, Faculty of Arts, Prof. Arif Nazir acknowledged the crucial role of language and translation in India’s educational framework. He noted India’s rich history of translation and the importance of grammar, vocabulary, literature, and translation in language learning.
Dr. Sumanpreet Virk announced the Panini Ratan award, which ws conferred upon Professor Pannikar in recognition of their significant contribution to linguistic culture.
Six books were also released on this occasion, including “The Book of Abstracts”, “The Journal of Faculty of Arts”, “Crafting Resources for Language Pedagogy in the Digital Era”, Prof. Khaira’s “Semiotics and Narrative of Punjab”, Prof. Rana Nayar’s “Corona Chronicles” and Prof. M.J. Warsi’s “Jadeed Lisaniyaat aur Urdu Adab”.
Dr. Suman Preet from Punjabi University, Patiala extended a vote of thanks.