Uncertainty encompasses the future of the language and if events continue in the same path they are currently headed, Urdu will soon be forgotten.  The term, Urdu, may remain in use but to refer to a language almost completely different from what it was before.  It would be more appropriate to label it as an English or Hindi derivative.

The government of Musharraf has made English as the compulsory language to be taught in Pakistan.  Urdu literature has lost its popularity there and the number of students in advanced Urdu studies is decreasing by the year. 

As Bollywood spreads in popularity, the Hindustani (mix between Hindi, English, and Urdu) also gains prestige.  Most people view Hindi films through VCDs available on the black market.  Recently, two Indian films (dealing with Muslim accomplishments in the Southern Asia) have been given permission to be shown in Pakistani theatres.  These are just the initial steps of what is to come. 

The future lies in the hands of the government and ministers in charge of education and law.  Sellers of VCDs that promote indecency should be banned from selling after given sufficient warning.  Classical Urdu (advanced) should be compulsory to all students along with some knowledge of Arabic (so to understand the Qur’an).  The understanding of Arabic in the Qur’an will also pave a way to eliminate ignorance in the society which will in turn stop extremism and terrorism at its roots.  Only students who chose fields in which English is necessary (to read textbooks and research) should be taught English at advanced levels.  For the long term, projects should be initiated to translate English books on sciences into the Urdu language. 

Religious schools (دینی مدارس) should be used as educational institutions through which Pakistan can raise their literacy rates.  Just by having the ability to read the script from the Qur’an, people will be literate to some extent to read Urdu as well.  Proper organization with a system of teaching in each Masaajid (Places of worship) will enable the country to become civilized. 

The need for a central organization for the preservation and education of the Urdu language remains.  Perhaps one day people shall realize the need and make the initiative.  Until then it is up to individuals to educate about a language that may be soon forgotten.