New Kashmiri Textbook Series Launched for Classes 1-5

A book release ceremony held in Srinagar on Friday marked the launch of the *Zabarwan Series*, a set of Kashmiri-language textbooks designed for Classes 1st to 5th. Organised by Vision Books International, the event brought together prominent literary and academic figures, including Prof. Neerja Mattu, Prof. Naseem Shafie, and historian Zareef Ahmad Zareef.

The series' young author, Dheeba Nazir, spoke about the extensive research behind the textbooks, which aim to make Kashmiri language learning more accessible and engaging for children. A research paper presented by Afroza Akther examined the pedagogical significance of the series in promoting Kashmiri language and literature among young learners.

Speakers at the event, including Prof. Mattu, emphasised the urgent need to preserve and promote *Kashmiri* as a mother tongue amid declining usage among younger generations. Several participants praised the initiative as a meaningful step toward strengthening Kashmiri-medium education and ensuring the language's continuity in formal schooling. The programme was moderated by writer and journalist Zubair Qureshi.