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Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Science
- Hindustan Times
Students' AI project aimed at preserving Marathi literature
PUNE: In a remarkable initiative blending artificial intelligence (AI) and regional heritage, four final-year computer engineering students from the Pimpri-Chinchwad College of Engineering (PCCOE) have developed 'Marathi Bhasha Vishwa', an innovative AI project aimed at preserving and promoting the Marathi language. The project features two unique systems namely 'Marathi Tiny Stories' and 'Sant Sahitya AI' that marry the power of small language models (SLMs) with the richness of Marathi literature. About the motivation behind the project, student Anish Joshi, said, 'We realised that while there is a lot of focus on AI for global languages, regional languages like Marathi are often ignored. With this project, we wanted to ensure our language finds a voice in the digital world too.' The 'Marathi Tiny Stories' system uses a fine-tuned BLOOM-560M model to generate short, culturally aligned stories in Marathi for children that are ideal for rural schools and digital classrooms with limited infrastructure. The stories are created using carefully designed prompts and include titles, dialogues, and morals in simple language appropriate for children aged three to five years. Aryan Sagavekar, who worked on the story dataset generation, noted, 'We designed each story to be emotionally resonant and educational. It was important to us that the stories reflect Marathi culture and also instil values in children.' The second system, 'Sant Sahitya AI' is designed for philosophical interpretation. Users can upload texts from saints like Sant Dnyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram and the system provides explanations and insights into the tone and literary style of the original works. Guruprasad Pathak, who worked on this module, explained, 'Sant literature is deep and often hard to interpret. With AI, we created a way for modern readers to understand the essence of this literature without losing its poetic soul.' The team ensured that the models were optimised for low-resource environments, employing techniques like prompt engineering, fine-tuning, and creative dataset design. The models can run on mobile devices or basic computers, making them accessible across urban and rural regions. Anish Joshirao, summarising the team's vision, shared, 'This is more than just a project. It is a tribute to our language. We hope it inspires others to build similar tools for regional languages across India.' The team attributed their success to the guidance of their mentor, professor Rachana Patil, head of the computer engineering (regional language) department and support from the PCCOE's department of computer engineering. According to the students, future work may include voice interfaces, story visualisations, and expanding the platform to other Indian languages. This student-led project stands out as a shining example of how technology can empower cultural preservation, proving that AI, when applied thoughtfully, can become a powerful force for linguistic inclusivity and heritage education. About this project, professor Patil said, 'This project is a beautiful confluence of technology and tradition. What impressed me the most was the students' sensitivity toward cultural heritage and their commitment to using AI not just as a tool, but as a bridge to connect generations. 'Marathi Bhasha Vishwa' goes beyond coding and algorithms; it reflects a deep understanding of language, ethics, and accessibility. The students were incredibly dedicated, from curating culturally authentic datasets to ensuring that the models run smoothly even on low-end devices. As a mentor, seeing them apply advanced AI techniques to preserve and democratise Marathi literature has been truly fulfilling. I believe this project sets a benchmark for how regional languages can find meaningful space in the AI ecosystem.'
India Gazette
2 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
Haryana CM Saini urges citizens to embrace teachings of Sant Kabir, contribute to nation-building
New Delhi [India], June 11 (ANI): On the occasion of Sant Shiromani Kabir Das Jayanti, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini made several significant announcements, including increasing Rs 2,100 in the monthly wages of Safai Karamcharis. Furthermore, he also announced the establishment of a 100-bed de-addiction centre at the upcoming Sant Sarsai Nath Medical College in Sirsa. The Chief Minister called upon the people to adopt the timeless wisdom of Sant Kabir in their lives and contribute to nation-building by rising above casteism and all forms of said, today, the spirit of Sant Kabir is reflected in every scheme, every policy, and every decision of our government, all driven by the vision of 'Haryana Ek- Haryanvi Ek'. He also announced the expansion of the existing de-addiction center in Dabwali from 10 to 30 beds and the setting up of a new 30-bed de-addiction center near the government hospital in Ellenabad. The Chief Minister made these announcements while addressing the state-level function held in Sirsa under the Sant Mahapurush Samman evam Vichar Prachar Prasar Yojana, to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sant Kabir Das on Wednesday. On this occasion, he also announced a grant of Rs 31 lakh. Reaffirming the government's commitment to the promises made in its Sankalp Patra, the Chief Minister said that the government has resolved to increase the wages of Safai Karamcharis in a phased manner to Rs 26,000 over five years, a promise the government fully intends to fulfil. Speaking about the spiritual legacy of Sant Kabir, the Chief Minister said, Sant Kabir was a torchbearer of India's spiritual values of 'Sarva Dharma Sambhav' (equal respect for all religions) and 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family). He was born at a time when society was bound by superstition, casteism, and rigid traditions. Through his fearless reformist work, he earned a revered place in history, he said. CM Saini said that Sant Kabir boldly challenged social evils across all religions. Saints, sages, prophets, and spiritual masters like him have shown the right path to humanity. Their teachings are the shared heritage of all humankind, and it is our collective responsibility to preserve and propagate this legacy, he said. The Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always considered the teachings of Sant Kabir as the foundation of modern India. 'Advancing the ideals of Sant Kabir, Prime Minister has played a transformative role in shaping modern India after independence. Over the past 11 years, under his leadership, the government has launched several welfare schemes aimed at empowering and uplifting the poor,' said CM Saini. He said that following the Prime Minister's vision, the Haryana government has also worked on the principle of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas', implementing various schemes and policies for the upliftment of every section of society. The Chief Minister emphasised that the core philosophy of the state government is 'Antyodaya', uplifting the last mile citizen. This is the path shown by Sant Kabir, and it forms the very foundation of our policies. Today, our 'triple engine' government is progressing on this path with triple the speed, he said. Referring to the Supreme Court verdict regarding reservation for the Deprived Scheduled Castes, the Chief Minister said that the Haryana government swiftly implemented the decision in the state, ensuring that the DSC community received its rightful share. The Chief Minister said that the government has taken significant steps to safeguard the interests and dignity of Safai Karamcharis. The Haryana State Commission for Safai Karamcharis has been established to address their welfare and rights. The government has also ensured safety and dignity by introducing insurance provisions Rs 5 lakh compensation in case of death during duty and Rs 10 lakh in case of death while cleaning sewer lines. In addition, over 5,000 Safai Karamcharis employed through private agencies have now been brought onto the official roles of the respective municipal bodies. Highlighting the broader commitment to social justice, the Chief Minister shared that under the Mukhyamantri Vivah Shagun Yojana, a financial grant of Rs 71,000 has been provided for the marriages of 2.6 lakh daughters belonging to Scheduled Caste families living below the poverty line. Further, under the Ambedkar Awas Navinikaran Yojana, Rs 80,000 is being provided to BPL Scheduled Caste families for house repairs. So far, 76,985 beneficiaries have received assistance totaling Rs 416 crore under this scheme, shared Nayab Singh Saini. Nayab Singh Saini further emphasised that Sant Kabir's teachings remain just as relevant today as they were centuries ago. Let us resolve to take Kabir's message to every household. His words should not just be remembered but practised in our daily lives. By transcending barriers of caste and inequality, we shall move forward towards building 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat', he added. Earlier speaking on the occasion, the Social Justice, Empowerment, Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes Welfare, and Antyodaya (Sewa), Minister, Krishan Kumar Bedi, said that the teachings of great saints like Sant Kabir are extremely relevant in today's society. He said that Sant Kabir gave the message of truth, equality, brotherhood, and humanity, a message that it is our collective duty to spread among the people. The Minister said that the Supreme Court's decision had come in the month of August, and it was Nayab Singh Saini who decided to implement the verdict in favour of the DSC community. He said that the DSC community had to struggle for years. This issue was raised repeatedly before previous governments and Chief Ministers, but instead of solutions, the community only received assurances and had to resort to protests, he said. Krishan Kumar Bedi further said that leaders from the community were compelled to stage demonstrations, and many protesters even had to go to jail. However, the dream that once remained incomplete has now been fulfilled by the present government, he said. Bedi said that this celebration is not just a birth anniversary but a symbol of social transformation. He remarked that previous governments did not give due importance to celebrating the anniversaries of social saints and great personalities, whereas the present government has initiated a new tradition of celebrating the birth anniversaries of Maharshi Valmiki, Sant Ravidas, Baba Saheb Ambedkar, Sant Kabir, and other revered figures at the state level. BJP State President, Mohan Lal Kaushik, while addressing the gathering, said that this day is not just the birth anniversary of a great personality, but a day to remember a visionary who showed society the path of harmony by rising above caste and discrimination. He said that the life of Sant Kabir continues to be a source of inspiration, and Chief Minister Saini is leading all sections of society in line with Kabir's ideals. Kaushik further said that the Chief Minister has not only empowered the OBC community but has also emerged as the voice of the poor, the backwards, and the marginalised. He emphasised that when the Haryana Government was formed for the third time, the very first decision of the Cabinet was taken in favour of the rights of the DSC community. This government does not merely make promises, it delivers on the ground, he said. Kaushik said that the government had pledged in its manifesto to provide employment opportunities to 5 lakh youth, and rapid progress is being made in that direction. He further assured that in the coming times, even more significant decisions will be taken in the fields of employment, education, and dignity for the welfare of society. Former MP Sunita Duggal said that CM Saini has given a new identity and strength to the long-oppressed and marginalised sections of society. She said that the Chief Minister remains constantly dedicated to public service and is working for the welfare of every section of society with the spirit of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. She added that an IIT should be established in this region so that children stay away from drugs and focus on their studies. Referring to the teachings of Saint Kabir, she said that just as Saint Kabir rose above caste and discrimination and considered humanity to be supreme, the Chief Minister is also taking the entire society forward with the same spirit. On this occasion, Cabinet Ministers Dr Arvind Sharma and Ranbir Gangwa, Rajya Sabha MP, Subhash Barala, MLAs, Kapoor Valmiki and Randhir Panihar, Swami Swadesh Kabir, former ministers Anoop Dhanak and Devender Babli, former MLA, Dura Ram, and several other dignitaries were present. (ANI)
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
UP govt planning to two leather parks named after Sant Ravidas
Lucknow: To ensure dignity and empowerment of Dalits in the state, the UP govt is set to establish two leather parks named after Sant Ravidas, which will create employment opportunities for leather artisans. Among other initiatives for Dalit uplift, 10 textile parks are planned under the Sant Kabir Das CM Mitra Park Yojana. Canteens and rest houses will also be constructed in all 'krishi mandis' in the name of Mata Shabari. "In March, CM Yogi inaugurated a satsang bhawan at Ravidas Temple in Ayodhya, constructed at a cost of Rs 1.15 crore by the state govt. The Bharat Ratna Dr B R Ambedkar Memorial and Cultural Centre in Lucknow has been built, which is a source of pride for the Dalit community. 'Zero Poverty Programme' was announced to be named after Babasaheb, marking a historic step," a govt spokesperson said. "Focusing on education, the govt launched the Sant Ravidas Shiksha Sahayata Yojana, providing financial assistance to children of labourers through scholarships. Atal Residential Schools have been established at all 18 divisional headquarters, offering free residential education for underprivileged children. Jayaprakash Narayan Sarvodaya Vidyalayas reserve 60% of seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes students, delivering quality education to meritorious poor students," he said. "The Mukhyamantri Abhyuday Yojana offers free coaching for competitive exams' aspirants in every district. Free residential coaching centres operate in Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Agra, Aligarh, Varanasi, and Hapur, while a dedicated centre for judicial services exam preparation functions in Prayagraj," he said. The Dr BR Ambedkar Hostel Scheme provides 264 hostels for SC, ST, and OBC students, offering free accommodation, electricity, furniture, newspapers, and competitive exam materials. "The CM has emphasized making Dalit youth economically self-reliant through various programmes over the past eight years. The Ambedkar Social Innovation Incubation Mission arranges venture capital funding for SC students in higher education institutions to support innovation and entrepreneurship. The Stand-Up India Scheme provides SC/ST youth with loans ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 1 crore," he said. "Over the past eight years, the govt has also preserved and promoted the cultural identity of the Dalit community by establishing a tribal museum for the Tharu tribe in Balrampur and another museum named after Birsa Munda in Mirzapur-Sonbhadra," he added. "Under the Mukhyamantri Samuhik Vivah Yojana, 4.76 lakh couples have been married, with financial assistance increased from Rs 51,000 to Rs 1 lakh," the spokesperson said.
Indian Express
29-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Five lakh devotees to accompany Sant Dnyaneshwar palkhi to Pandharpur amid rain concerns
Written by Siddhi Patil The annual Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj palkhi (chariot) procession will begin from Alandi in the Pune district of Maharashtra on June 19, with lakhs of devotees walking to Pandharpur. It will mark the start of the Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage to the temple town in the Solapur district dedicated to Lord Vitthal. The palkhi is scheduled to reach Pandharpur on July 10 and return on July 29. Devotees will halt in Pune city on June 20 and 21. This year, 280 dindis (groups of worshippers) have registered with the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sansthan, while 330 Dindis are associated with the Sant Tukaram Maharaj Sansthan. An estimated 5 lakh pilgrims are expected to accompany the Sant Dnyaneshwar palkhi. Meanwhile, the Sant Tukaram Maharaj palkhi will depart from Dehu, also in the Pune district, on June 18, reaching Pandharpur on July 10 and returning on July 21. This Palkhi will halt at Nana Peth in Pune on June 21. At a recent meeting with the state government, the Varkari Sampradaya raised important concerns about infrastructure, including healthcare, sanitation, water supply, transportation, and first aid facilities during the procession. It raised serious environmental issues, particularly the pollution of the Indrayani and Chandrabhaga rivers, and the risks posed by incomplete road construction during the monsoon. Yogi Niranjan Nath Guru Shantinath, chief trustee of the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sansthan, said, 'The (Eknath) Shinde government initiated these meetings last year, and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has continued them. Our concerns have been heard, and directions have been given to the respective departments. However, there has been no permanent resolution yet. Our main worry is the impact of ongoing rains and incomplete national highway roadworks, which pose a safety threat to Varkaris. Our surveys suggest rains may continue until June 27.' (Siddhi Patil is an intern with The Indian Express)
The Guardian
05-04-2025
- Politics
- The Guardian
George Santos prosecutors seek seven-year prison term for campaign fraud
Prosecutors are seeking more than seven years in prison for disgraced former congressman George Santos after he pleaded guilty to federal fraud and identity theft charges. The US attorney for the eastern district of New York argued in a court filing on Friday that a significant sentence was warranted because the New York Republican's 'unparalleled crimes' had 'made a mockery' of the country's election system. 'He lied to his campaign staff, his supporters, his putative employer and congressional colleagues, and the American public,' the office wrote. 'From his creation of a wholly fictitious biography to his callous theft of money from elderly and impaired donors, Santos's unrestrained greed and voracious appetite for fame enabled him to exploit the very system by which we select our representatives.' The office also argued that Santos had been 'unrepentant and defiant' for years, dismissing the prosecution as a 'witch-hunt' and refusing to resign from Congress as his web of lies was debunked. Even after pleading guilty before trial, prosecutors said his claims of remorse 'ring hollow', noting that he has not forfeited any of his ill-gotten gains or repaid any of his victims. 'The volume of Santos's lies and his extraordinary pattern of dishonesty speaks to his high likelihood of reoffending and the concomitant need to remove him from the community he has repeatedly victimized,' prosecutors wrote. The 87-month sentence proposed by prosecutors represents the high end of court guidelines in such cases. That would be roughly four to five years behind bars plus a mandatory minimum two-year sentence for aggravated identity theft, they said. Santos' lawyers did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment Friday, which was the deadline for both sides to submit their sentencing memos to court. A federal judge on Long Island is scheduled to hear arguments and decide on Santos' sentence during a court hearing on 25 April. The once-rising Republican, who represented parts of Queens and Long Island, served barely a year in office before he was ousted by his House colleagues in 2023 – just the sixth congressperson ever expelled in the chamber's history. Santos' political demise came after it was revealed that he had fabricated much of his life story, leading to questions about how the political unknown had funded his winning campaign. The now-36-year-old cast himself as a wealthy businessman who had graduated from top colleges, worked at prestigious Wall Street firms and held a valuable real estate portfolio. In truth, he was struggling financially and faced eviction. Santos admitted in August that he duped voters, deceived donors and stole the identities of nearly a dozen people, including his own family members, to make donations to his congressional campaign. He was initially due to be sentenced in February, but a judge granted him a three-month reprieve to come up with more than half a million dollars in court fines. As part of his plea deal, Santos agreed to pay nearly $375,000 in restitution and $205,000 in forfeiture. Santos's lawyers said at the time that he had little more than $1,000 in liquid assets and needed more time to build his newly launched podcast Pants on Fire in order to begin paying off the debt. Prosecutors maintain Santos profited handsomely from his infamy, arguing he has earned more than $800,000 from appearances on the video-sharing website Cameo and from a new documentary since his expulsion from Congress. Two of Santos's campaign staffers have also pleaded guilty to federal charges in connection to the campaign financing scheme. Sam Miele, his former campaign fundraiser, was sentenced in March to one year and one day in federal prison. He admitted to impersonating a high-ranking congressional aide and charging donors' credit cards without authorization while raising campaign cash for Santos. Nancy Marks, Santos's former campaign treasurer, admitted she submitted to federal regulators bogus campaign finance reports filled with fake donors and even a fake $500,000 personal loan from Santos himself. The embellishments helped Santos hit campaign fundraising thresholds needed to qualify for financial backing from the national Republican party. Marks is due to be sentenced in May.
