Srinagar, Jan. 10 -- Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that language plays a key role in preserving society, culture and religion. He stressed the need to promote indigenous products and the use of mother tongues.

Addressing the Maheshwari Global Convention in Jodhpur, Amit Shah said that people may learn and use any language as required, but communication at home should be in Hindi or local languages.

He said speaking to children in their mother tongue helps them stay connected with their history and native place. "Language keeps society, religion and culture alive," Shah said.

The Home Minister said that while foreign languages can be used where necessary, parents should speak to children at home in their mother tongue....