SRINAGAR:  In a landmark move to promote and preserve regional languages, the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has announced the maiden publication of textbooks for the Shina language (Classes I and II). The initiative aligns seamlessly with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage (NCFFS) 2022, which advocate mother-tongue-based, multilingual, and culturally responsive education at the foundational level.

The textbooks have already been printed and distributed as per requisition, ensuring timely availability for classroom use. The introduction of the Shina textbooks marks a milestone in JKBOSE’s sustained efforts to mainstream indigenous languages in school education. By enabling children to begin learning in their mother tongue, the Board aims to strengthen foundational literacy, cognitive development, and cultural connection among Shina-speaking learners.

 Developed strictly as per NCF-FS 2022 guidelines, the textbooks follow a play-based, activity-oriented, and child-centric pedagogy. The age-appropriate content focuses on developing listening, speaking, early reading, and writing skills, in keeping with the NEP 2020 vision of joyful and meaningful learning rooted in local culture.

JKBOSE has consistently played a proactive role in the promotion and protection of Jammu & Kashmir’s rich linguistic heritage. Through the introduction, revision, and standardization of curricula in regional languages, the Board has been endeavouring to protect rich cultural diversity and its transmission to future generations through well- knit curriculum and scheme of studies.

The publication of Shina textbooks further reinforces JKBOSE’s commitment to linguistic inclusivity and cultural preservation. More than an academic initiative, this step represents a strategic effort to empower local communities, affirm linguistic identity, and translate national policy mandates on multilingual education into classroom practice, especially for the Shina-speaking communities of J&K.

Meanwhile, JKBOSE appreciated the dedicated efforts of the textbook development committee, headed by Masood A. Samoon and Prof. Musavir Ahmad, Department of Linguistics, University of Kashmir, for their scholarly guidance and meticulous review of the textbooks, ensuring academic rigour and linguistic authenticity.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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