Punjabi has official status, a rich literary heritage and a state institution dedicated to its development. However, ensuring that it functions effectively in government, education, public communication and emerging technologies requires more than legal recognition. It needs specialist staff, research, language resources and sustained institutional support.

The controversy surrounding Punjab’s Bhasha Vibhag (language department) has brought this question into focus. When recruitment in an institution entrusted with developing the language can remain unresolved for more than three years, it raises questions about the priority given to its mandate. While the delay alone does not establish its impact on the department’s output, it highlights the importance of staffing and administrative support.

Why does official status matter?

The demand for a Punjabi-speaking state culminated in Punjab’s reorganisation in 1966.…