New Delhi, May 23 (Agency) The Indian chapter of the SAARC Journalists Forum is set to participate in the inaugural International Mother Language Journalists’ Conference, scheduled for June 1–2 in Kathmandu. This event, organised in collaboration with the Nepal Forum for Newer Journalists, marks a significant milestone for journalists who work in regional and vernacular languages other than Hindi and English. Journalists from various countries have expressed great enthusiasm for the conference. A regional journalist conveyed their excitement, stating, “It is a matter of pride for us to speak at the international level in vernacular languages. Our voice and concerns will be heard at the international level.” Dr. Smita Mishra, an executive member of the International Committee of the SAARC Journalists Forum, highlighted the uniqueness of the event.
“This is the first time a conference is being organised for journalists focusing on journalism in mother tongues and regional languages at the international level,” she remarked. Sudhanshu Anirudh, President of the Indian chapter of the SAARC Journalists Forum, emphasised the democratic significance of the event. “Democracy will be strengthened by doing journalism in mother tongues and in regional and vernacular languages,” he said. The conference will have Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, as the Chief guest. A large number of journalists from various states of India and other SAARC countries are expected to attend, marking a significant gathering of voices dedicated to the promotion of regional languages in journalism.