JAMMU: Cluster University of Jammu (CLUJ), under the aegis of the School of Humanities and Liberal Arts, formally launched a six-month Advanced Certificate Course in Dogri Translation during an inaugural ceremony held at Government Gandhi Memorial (GGM) Science College, Jammu.
The course is designed to develop professional translation skills in Dogri—one of India’s 22 scheduled languages—while contributing to the preservation and contemporary relevance of the region’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage.
Ram Niwas Sharma, IAS, Commissioner Secretary, Department of Higher Education, J&K UT, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and formally inaugurated the programme. In his address, he underscored the growing importance of trained translators in governance, education, literature, media, and digital platforms. He noted that systematic translation of Dogri literature and folklore is vital for cultural continuity, inclusivity, and respect for linguistic diversity.
Prof. K.S. Chandrasekar, Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu, presided over the function and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to promoting regional languages through focused academic initiatives. He emphasized that meaningful language education must blend scholarly depth with employable skills—a vision reflected in the newly launched course.
The keynote address was delivered by Padma Prof. Lalit Mangotra, eminent Dogri litterateur and Sahitya Akademi Awardee, who highlighted the urgent need for skilled translators to take Dogri language and literature to wider national and global audiences while preserving its cultural authenticity.
The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp and Shalok recitation. Prof. (Dr.) Twinkle Suri, Dean Academic Affairs, welcomed the gathering and outlined the academic framework of the course, which includes advanced translation techniques, terminology management, literary and technical translation, and cultural sensitivity in Dogri renditions. She also announced that the university plans to introduce a Diploma in Advanced Dogri Translation from the forthcoming academic session to ensure a sustained academic pathway in Dogri studies.
Adding cultural vibrancy to the event, students of the Music and Performing Arts programme presented Dogri songs. A galaxy of eminent Dogri scholars, litterateurs, and artists were honoured, including O.P. Sharma, Kasturi Lal Gupta, Maj. Gen. S.K. Sharma (Retd.), Padma M.S. Salathia, Prof. Veena Gupta, Prof. Sushma Sharma, and Dr. Joginder Singh.
The proceedings were anchored by Dr. Sugandha and Dr. Tarsem. The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Kuldeep Raina, Coordinator, Music and Performing Arts, who also coordinated the event, followed by the National Anthem.
The event was attended by the Registrar, Controller of Examinations, Deans, and Principals of constituent colleges of CLUJ. Academicians, students, cultural practitioners, language enthusiasts, and media representatives were also present, reflecting strong institutional and community support for sustained initiatives in Dogri language education.
