Bhubaneswar: To improve the representation and accessibility of the Odia language on digital platforms, the Odisha government’s Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department held a virtual meeting with Google India. The discussion focused on promoting accurate and error-free use of the Odia language across search engines and social media, making it easier for Odia speakers to access and share information online.
As digital platforms and social media play an increasingly vital role in daily life, the availability of precise Odia content online has been a challenge. Many Odia users face difficulties in accessing correct and comprehensive information in their native language. The virtual meeting aimed to bridge this gap by finding ways to ensure seamless digital experiences for Odia-speaking users around the world.
During the meeting, discussions revolved around the correct representation of the Odia script on digital platforms, accurate translation from English to Odia, and promoting standardization of the Odia font. Ensuring that Odia speakers can express themselves clearly on social media and other platforms was also a key priority.
Bishnupada Sethi, Principal Secretary of the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department, led the discussions, emphasizing the importance of error-free Odia usage. He noted that connecting Odia speakers globally through digital platforms would foster better communication and provide them with a powerful means of expression. He also highlighted the need for diverse information, ranging from general topics to academic and research material, to be easily accessible in Odia.
The meeting also explored the potential of integrating Odia language capabilities into artificial intelligence models. This would enable more effective access to digital information and services in Odia, benefiting a broad range of users, including the general public, students, intellectuals, and scholars.
The virtual meeting saw participation from key figures, including Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Director of the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department; Laxminarayan Mishra, Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways; Debaprasad Dash, Joint Secretary, Odisha Culture Department; and representatives from the Odia Bhasa Pratisthan, including Fanindra Nanda and Premananda Mahapatra. From Google India, Harsh Dhand and Amrita Kamat took part in the discussions.