Latest news with #Anuvadini
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
India open to sharing AI models with Global South: MeitY secretary
India is open to sharing its artificial intelligence models with the Global South, S Krishnan , Secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, said at FICCI's conference Bhashantara 2025 on Friday. Speaking at the conference, the secretary emphasised that India's language technology ecosystem is so diverse that it has the potential to lead global AI development, stating, "If you can do it in India, you can do it practically anywhere else in the world." India's intent to share AI models with the Global South stems from discussions with UN officials, who expressed interest in the country's collaborative approach to artificial intelligence development. It positions India as a potential alternative to other AI ecosystems, offering solutions designed explicitly for multilingual, resource-constrained environments. The government's India AI Mission has established AI Kosh, a data repository containing more than 400 databases, designed to support researchers and entrepreneurs developing multilingual AI solutions . Krishnan highlighted Mission Bhashini and Anuvadini as key programmes advancing language technology, with particular emphasis on capturing regional dialects rather than just major languages. India is also digitising traditional knowledge, including Ayurvedic texts and historical manuscripts, to create comprehensive datasets for global healthcare and research communities. Unlike other nations that rely solely on state or private funding, India's approach encourages multi-stakeholder participation across academia, industry and research institutions. Industry leaders at the conference outlined specific requirements to accelerate India's multilingual AI capabilities whilst committing to enhanced private sector contributions. Harsh Dhand, Research and AI Partnerships APAC lead at Google and Co-Chair of FICCI's Multilingual Internet Committee, presented three key requests to government: unlocking historical data from institutions like Prasar Bharathi and All India Radio, broadening the definition of "Make in India" to "Made in India by India for India," and, connecting research entities to prevent duplication of efforts and better resource utilization. Dhand also outlined that the industry must contribute through access to technology, seed funding for startups and academia, and skilling. The conference highlighted India's progress in democratising internet access through local language domain names, with Ajay Data, Chairman of FICCI's Multilingual Internet and Universal Acceptance Committee, noting that domain names are now available in all official Indian languages. With more than 6 billion people globally not speaking English as their primary language and India home to 19,500 languages and dialects, Data emphasised the vast commercial opportunities that lay ahead. Sandeep Nulkar, Co-Chair of FICCI's Multilingual Internet Committee and Founder of BITS Technologies, emphasised the conference's significance in concluding remarks: "We are no longer debating the possibility of a multilingual internet. We are actually mobilising around its urgency, not only in an academic manner, but also in a demographic and development and economic perspective."
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
India open to sharing AI models with Global South: MeitY Secretary
India is open to sharing its artificial intelligence models with the Global South, S Krishnan, Secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, said at FICCI's conference Bhashantara 2025 on Friday. Speaking at the conference, the secretary emphasised that India's language technology ecosystem is so diverse that it has the potential to lead global AI development, stating, "If you can do it in India, you can do it practically anywhere else in the world." India's intent to share AI models with the Global South stems from discussions with UN officials, who expressed interest in the country's collaborative approach to artificial intelligence development. It positions India as a potential alternative to other AI ecosystems, offering solutions designed explicitly for multilingual, resource-constrained environments. The government's India AI Mission has established AI Kosh, a data repository containing more than 400 databases, designed to support researchers and entrepreneurs developing multilingual AI solutions . Krishnan highlighted Mission Bhashini and Anuvadini as key programmes advancing language technology, with particular emphasis on capturing regional dialects rather than just major languages. India is also digitising traditional knowledge, including Ayurvedic texts and historical manuscripts, to create comprehensive datasets for global healthcare and research communities. Unlike other nations that rely solely on state or private funding, India's approach encourages multi-stakeholder participation across academia, industry and research institutions. Industry leaders at the conference outlined specific requirements to accelerate India's multilingual AI capabilities whilst committing to enhanced private sector contributions. Harsh Dhand, Research and AI Partnerships APAC lead at Google and Co-Chair of FICCI's Multilingual Internet Committee, presented three key requests to government: unlocking historical data from institutions like Prasar Bharathi and All India Radio, broadening the definition of "Make in India" to "Made in India by India for India," and, connecting research entities to prevent duplication of efforts and better resource utilization. Dhand also outlined that the industry must contribute through access to technology, seed funding for startups and academia, and skilling. The conference highlighted India's progress in democratising internet access through local language domain names, with Ajay Data, Chairman of FICCI's Multilingual Internet and Universal Acceptance Committee, noting that domain names are now available in all official Indian languages. With more than 6 billion people globally not speaking English as their primary language and India home to 19,500 languages and dialects, Data emphasised the vast commercial opportunities that lay ahead. Sandeep Nulkar, Co-Chair of FICCI's Multilingual Internet Committee and Founder of BITS Technologies, emphasised the conference's significance in concluding remarks: "We are no longer debating the possibility of a multilingual internet. We are actually mobilising around its urgency, not only in an academic manner, but also in a demographic and development and economic perspective."
Canada News.Net
6 days ago
- Business
- Canada News.Net
India open to sharing AI models with Global South: S Krishnan, MeitY Secretary
New Delhi [India], July 25 (ANI): India is open to sharing its artificial intelligence models with the Global South, S Krishnan, Secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, said at FICCI's conference Bhashantara 2025 on Friday. Speaking at the conference, the secretary emphasised that India's Language Technology ecosystem is so diverse that it has the potential to lead global AI development, stating, 'If you can do it in India, you can do it practically anywhere else in the world.' India's intent to share AI models with the Global South stems from discussions with UN officials, who expressed interest in the country's collaborative approach to artificial intelligence development. It positions India as a potential alternative to other AI ecosystems, offering solutions designed explicitly for multilingual, resource-constrained environments. The government's India AI Mission has established AI Kosh, a data repository containing more than 400 databases, designed to support researchers and entrepreneurs developing multilingual AI solutions. Krishnan highlighted Mission Bhashini and Anuvadini as key programmes advancing language technology, with particular emphasis on capturing regional dialects rather than just major languages. India is also digitising traditional knowledge, including Ayurvedic texts and historical manuscripts, to create comprehensive datasets for global healthcare and research communities. Unlike other nations that rely solely on state or private funding, India's approach encourages multi-stakeholder participation across academia, industry and research institutions. Industry leaders at the conference outlined specific requirements to accelerate India's multilingual AI capabilities whilst committing to enhanced private sector contributions. Harsh Dhand, Research and AI Partnerships APAC lead at Google and Co-Chair of FICCI's Multilingual Internet Committee, presented three key requests to government: unlocking historical data from institutions like Prasar Bharathi and All India Radio, broadening the definition of 'Make in India' to 'Made in India by India for India,' and, connecting research entities to prevent duplication of efforts and better resource utilization. Dhand also outlined that the industry must contribute through access to technology, seed funding for startups and academia, and skilling. The conference highlighted India's progress in democratising internet access through local language domain names, with Ajay Data, Chairman of FICCI's Multilingual Internet and Universal Acceptance Committee, noting that domain names are now available in all official Indian languages. With more than 6 billion people globally not speaking English as their primary language and India home to 19,500 languages and dialects, Data emphasised the vast commercial opportunities that lay ahead. Sandeep Nulkar, Co-Chair of FICCI's Multilingual Internet Committee and Founder of BITS Technologies, emphasised the conference's significance in concluding remarks: 'We are no longer debating the possibility of a multilingual internet. We are actually mobilising around its urgency, not only in an academic manner, but also in a demographic and development and economic perspective.' (ANI)
Time of India
7 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
India open to sharing AI models with Global South: MeitY Secretary
Academy Empower your mind, elevate your skills India is open to sharing its artificial intelligence models with the Global South, S Krishnan, Secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, said at FICCI's conference Bhashantara 2025 on at the conference, the secretary emphasised that India's language technology ecosystem is so diverse that it has the potential to lead global AI development, stating, "If you can do it in India, you can do it practically anywhere else in the world."India's intent to share AI models with the Global South stems from discussions with UN officials, who expressed interest in the country's collaborative approach to artificial intelligence positions India as a potential alternative to other AI ecosystems, offering solutions designed explicitly for multilingual, resource-constrained government's India AI Mission has established AI Kosh, a data repository containing more than 400 databases, designed to support researchers and entrepreneurs developing multilingual AI solutions . Krishnan highlighted Mission Bhashini and Anuvadini as key programmes advancing language technology, with particular emphasis on capturing regional dialects rather than just major is also digitising traditional knowledge, including Ayurvedic texts and historical manuscripts, to create comprehensive datasets for global healthcare and research other nations that rely solely on state or private funding, India's approach encourages multi-stakeholder participation across academia, industry and research leaders at the conference outlined specific requirements to accelerate India's multilingual AI capabilities whilst committing to enhanced private sector Dhand, Research and AI Partnerships APAC lead at Google and Co-Chair of FICCI's Multilingual Internet Committee, presented three key requests to government: unlocking historical data from institutions like Prasar Bharathi and All India Radio, broadening the definition of "Make in India" to "Made in India by India for India," and, connecting research entities to prevent duplication of efforts and better resource also outlined that the industry must contribute through access to technology, seed funding for startups and academia, and conference highlighted India's progress in democratising internet access through local language domain names, with Ajay Data, Chairman of FICCI's Multilingual Internet and Universal Acceptance Committee, noting that domain names are now available in all official Indian languages. With more than 6 billion people globally not speaking English as their primary language and India home to 19,500 languages and dialects, Data emphasised the vast commercial opportunities that lay Nulkar, Co-Chair of FICCI's Multilingual Internet Committee and Founder of BITS Technologies, emphasised the conference's significance in concluding remarks: "We are no longer debating the possibility of a multilingual internet. We are actually mobilising around its urgency, not only in an academic manner, but also in a demographic and development and economic perspective."
News18
18-07-2025
- News18
Echoes Of Kashi: Walk Through Varanasi With UP's Audiobook That Tells Ganga's Tales In 13 Languages
Last Updated: UP Tourism is set to launch a GPS-enabled, app-integrated audiobook system that will guide your steps while covering all 84 ghats of Varanasi. the Ghats of Kashi will no longer remain silent. Instead, they will become living storytellers, speaking in 13 languages, narrating the legacy of gods and pilgrims, and inviting the world to not just see — but listen to — the soul of India. All this is set to become a reality as the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department embarks on a groundbreaking digital initiative to transform the way the world experiences Varanasi. They are going to launch a GPS-enabled, app-integrated audiobook system that will guide your steps while covering all 84 ghats of Varanasi. The idea is simple but powerful: to let visitors walk, sail, or even explore from afar while listening to professionally narrated content that brings to life the historical, religious, and cultural significance of each ghat — all through the UP Tourism mobile app. 'This digital audiobook will turn every walk along the Ganga into a spiritual and cultural journey. It's about telling Kashi's story the way it deserves to be heard — soulfully, accessibly, and globally," said Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary, Tourism. Authentic Stories in 13 Languages Officials said the GPS-enabled audiobook will be programmed in Hindi and English, narrated by professional storytellers, and further translated into 13 languages using the Government of India's AI-powered Anuvadini platform. These include 8 Indian languages — Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Gujarati, Kannada, Odia, Malayalam, Urdu — and 5 international ones — French, German, Spanish, Japanese, and Korean. 'Kashi has always belonged to the world. This app will help people in Tokyo, Toronto, or Thiruvananthapuram connect with its divine rhythm," said Dr Shashikant Pandey, Head of Political Science at Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar University. Expert-Backed, Artistically Voiced Each ghat's script — limited to 2 minutes to retain listener interest — will be created by a team of researchers and vetted by a panel comprising historians, ASI officials, and cultural experts. This ensures factual accuracy and cultural sensitivity. These scripts will then be recorded by voice-over artists chosen specifically for their clarity, tone, and connection to the spiritual ethos of Varanasi. To enhance immersion, the background audio will include subtle effects — such as temple bells, river waves, conch sounds, or distant chants — designed not to overpower but enrich the narration. Offline Ready, Elder Friendly The app will also offer offline downloads so that users on boat rides or in areas with poor network connectivity can still access the content. The interface will be kept simple and intuitive, with pause/play options, chapter selection by ghat, and transcript toggles for the hearing impaired. 'Many elderly pilgrims or foreigners don't engage with printed guides or QR codes. This voice-led journey will feel more natural and accessible," noted Anupama Chauhan, Joint Director, UP Tourism. Rollout and Expansion Plans The rollout of the GPS-enabled audiobook system for Varanasi's 84 ghats will take place in three structured phases. Phase 1, covering the first three months, will focus on research, scriptwriting in Hindi and English, expert vetting by a panel of historians and ASI officials, and voiceover recording by professional artists. The content will then be translated into 13 languages using the AI-based Anuvadini platform. After editing and integration into the UP Tourism mobile app and website, with GPS-based triggers and offline access, the system will undergo internal testing and, following approval from the Tourism Department, be launched for public use. Phase 2 will span the next 36 months, focusing on content and technical maintenance, language updates, user feedback monitoring, and analytics reporting. The agency will ensure hosting support and smooth functionality across devices. Phase 3, an optional 24-month extension, may expand the system to nearby temples, heritage streets, or thematic trails, and potentially include advanced features such as AR/VR or AI-guided tours. This phased rollout ensures long-term sustainability and continuous enrichment of Varanasi's spiritual and cultural tourism experience. Transforming Heritage into a Living Classroom This initiative is not just about convenience or tourism numbers — it's about cultural preservation and emotional connectivity. 'You can build temples and pathways, but making people understand the spirit of a place — that requires storytelling. This app will be Kashi's voice," said Prof Rajeev Sinha, a historian involved in the content design process. With over 7 crore tourists visiting Varanasi in 2023 alone, including nearly 9 lakh foreigners, UP's Tourism Department hopes this step will boost experiential tourism, promote inclusivity, and create lasting emotional bonds between Kashi and its visitors. Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
