QUETTA: The first comprehensive Balochi dictionary was launched here on Sunday.

The Chief Editor of the dictionary is renowned author Mir Jan Mohammad Dashti, a former chair-man of the Balochi Academy.

Makran University`s Vice Chancellor Dr Abdul Razak Sabir launched the dictionary at a largely attended ceremony held at the academy.

A large number of prominent intellectuals, writers and poets helped in the preparation of the dic-tionary through their efforts spanning over 15 years.

The extensive dictionary of modern age is considered the biggest achievement of the Balochi Academy.

Even before its formal launch, its 90 per cent copies were sold, forcing the ofhce-bearers to plan its secondedition at the earliest.

Speaking on the occasion, writers urged the Balochistan government to patronise the academy in its outstanding contribution to Balochi literature and at least help print the second edition of the dictionary because the first edition was set to be sold out within days.