‘The Chenab Times’ Launches Dedicated Kashmiri-Language News Website Under Multilingual News Initiative
Srinagar, Feb 26 (KB): ‘The Chenab Times’ has launched its dedicated Kashmiri-language news website at ks.thechenabtimes.com, a subdomain of its main platform thechenabtimes.com. This initiative, part of the multilingual news initiative (MNI), aims to promote and preserve the Kashmiri language through digital journalism.
The project is managed by Founder and Editor-in-Chief Anzer Ayoob and follows the suspension of the Kashmiri-language news account @ChenabTimesKmr on X (formerly Twitter) on January 9, 2025. Despite repeated appeals, X has not responded regarding the suspension. In response, The Chenab Times has launched a backup X account, @KashmiriCT, to continue publishing news in Kashmiri.
“One of the biggest concerns facing the Kashmiri language is its declining number of speakers, especially among the younger generation,” says Anzer.
“Urbanization and migration have led many families to prioritize Urdu and English, pushing Kashmiri to the margins of daily conversation,” he says. ‘This shift weakens intergenerational transmission, with children often struggling to speak their mother tongue fluently. As a result, traditional family conversations and cultural rituals are gradually eroding, putting the future of Kashmiri at risk.”
Recognizing these challenges, Anzer Ayoob emphasized the significance of the initiative, saying that, “the Kashmiri language is struggling in the digital space, and mainstream platforms rarely provide dedicated support for it. Our goal is to ensure that people can consume news in their native language and that Kashmiri remains relevant for future generations.”
To improve accessibility, The Chenab Times has introduced a new post format, combining Perso-Arabic script with Roman script after realizing that many Kashmiris, especially the younger generation, struggle with Perso-Arabic script alone.
“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,” Ayoob explained.
With the launch of ks.thechenabtimes.com, The Chenab Times reinforces 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.
Kashmiri language supporters are encouraged to follow @KashmiriCT on X and engage with the new website to help preserve and promote Kashmiri for future generations. (KB)
