Akshay Azad
Early Times Report
JAMMU, Aug 19: The budding writers of Jammu province are disappointed by the apathetical attitude of the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art Culture and Languages (JKAACL), for failing to respond to the works these writers had submitted for availing subsidy benefits, one year back.
Some budding writers wishing not to be named informed Early Times that in the month of July, 2014, they had submitted their works to JKAACL to avail the benefit of subsidy scheme, which was given for printing purposes. "We have not received any word from the Academy and whenever we enquire about the subsidy, we get same reply, the authorities in Srinagar can say anything", the writer said.
He further said that on one hand every government official and politician boasted to promote local languages, art and culture but on ground, all these utterances and speeches have proved hollow.
Pertinently, the writers have to submit their art work, which is forwarded to Publication section in Srinagar, where after a meeting the works are forwarded to Language editor, who after review forwards the same for reviewing, if required. If the writings are approved, a contract is to be signed by writer and the approved writing works of writers is forwarded for Chief Minister's approval, who is chairman of Academy.
Another writer said that after availing subsidy benefit for printing, the writer has to wait for three years, for again availing the subsidy benefit for new publication. "How we will write more books, if such is the attitude of Academy, which has failed to extend subsidy benefit, after lapse of more than one year", the writer said, adding that the Academy has been taking the shield of September floods, but it was almost an year but there was no word, which only spoke the volumes of insincerity.
Secretary of JKAACL, Aziz Hajni attributed the delay to September 2014 floods. "The books submitted by Kashmir writers were destroyed in floods, after which we had asked for fresh submission of works. We require approval of Chief Minister and it is learnt that CM has also given approval", he said, adding that nearly in a week’s time, the writers, whose works were approved, would get the benefit of subsidy. |
