February 2025 – The Chenab Times has launched a dedicated Kashmiri-language news website, ks.thechenabtimes.com, under its Multilingual News Initiative (MNI). This step aims to promote and preserve the Kashmiri language through digital journalism, ensuring greater accessibility for Kashmiri-speaking audiences.
The initiative follows the suspension of The Chenab Times’ Kashmiri-language news account, @ChenabTimesKmr, on X (formerly Twitter) on January 9, 2025. Despite multiple appeals, X has not responded regarding the suspension. In response, The Chenab Times has launched a backup account, @KashmiriCT, to continue publishing news in Kashmiri.
Challenges Facing the Kashmiri Language
One of the biggest challenges facing the Kashmiri language is the declining number of speakers, particularly among younger generations. Urbanization and migration have led many families to shift towards Urdu and English, sidelining Kashmiri in daily conversations. As a result, children often struggle to speak their mother tongue fluently, weakening intergenerational transmission. This linguistic shift has also affected traditional family conversations and cultural rituals, putting Kashmiri at risk of further decline.
Recognizing these challenges, The Chenab Times has adopted a new tweet format for its Kashmiri-language posts. Instead of using only the Perso-Arabic script, the platform now includes both Perso-Arabic and Roman scripts to make the language more accessible to younger Kashmiris who may not be proficient in reading Kashmiri in its traditional script.
“We noticed that many Kashmiris are more familiar with the Roman script. By incorporating both scripts in our social media posts, we aim to bridge this gap and make news more accessible,” said Anzer Ayoob, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Chenab Times.
With the launch of ks.thechenabtimes.com, The Chenab Times reaffirms its commitment to Kashmiri-language journalism, ensuring the language remains relevant and accessible in the digital era.
“This is not just about news; it is about preserving our linguistic heritage and making sure that Kashmiri has a strong presence online,” Ayoob added.
Supporters are encouraged to follow @KashmiriCT and engage with the new website to contribute to the preservation and promotion of the Kashmiri language.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
