Kargil, Apr 25: A senior official from the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has assured support for strengthening local broadcasting infrastructure and promoting regional languages in Kargil, following extensive consultations with cultural bodies, radio professionals and civil society groups during a two-day visit earlier this week.
Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary (Broadcasting), reviewed broadcasting-related concerns and cultural promotion efforts during his visit on April 22, engaging directly with stakeholders who flagged gaps in regional content dissemination and administrative functioning.
The official also paid tributes at the Kargil War Memorial, honouring the soldiers who fell during the Kargil War, underscoring the Centre’s continued acknowledgement of the region’s historical and emotional significance.
During interactions in Kargil, delegations including the Shina Writers’ Association, the Purig Cultural and Literary Society, and radio artists from All India Radio Kargil highlighted longstanding demands for greater linguistic representation, improved programming facilities, and administrative autonomy.
Key issues raised included the inclusion of the Prime Minister’s monthly broadcast, Mann Ki Baat, in the Shina language, expansion of Shina-language programming, and the operational challenges stemming from the relocation of a sanctioned administrative post from Kargil to Leh. Delegates argued that such shifts have constrained local decision-making and affected broadcasting efficiency.
The stakeholders also called for the establishment of a dedicated broadcasting cluster for Kargil, along with a Programme Generating Facility to boost locally produced content. Concerns were raised about limited staffing and the need for additional personnel to cater to diverse linguistic groups in the district.
The Purig Cultural and Literary Society pressed for administrative reforms within Akashvani Kargil, particularly the restoration of Drawing and Disbursing Officer powers to the station. According to the Society, delays in artist remuneration and contractual processes have hampered programme production and discouraged local participation.
The delegation further emphasised the urgency of introducing morning broadcasts in Purgi and other indigenous dialects, alongside recruiting local cultural experts to ensure authenticity in programming. Increasing locally curated content, they noted, is vital for preserving Kargil’s linguistic and cultural identity.
Officials from the district administration, including those from Drass and Kargil, facilitated the visit and participated in discussions, while representatives from All India Radio Leh also joined deliberations.
While no immediate policy announcements were made, the Joint Secretary’s assurance has raised expectations among local stakeholders that structural and programming reforms may follow, aimed at bridging the disconnect between central broadcasting frameworks and grassroots cultural realities in Kargil.
