Experts Emphasize Role of Information Technology in Preserving and Promoting Odia Language

Bhubaneswar: The First World Odia Language Conference 2024 hosted a session titled ‘Odia Language in the Age of Information Technology: Opportunities and Future,’ where experts highlighted the crucial role of information technology in preserving and spreading the Odia language globally.

Senthil Shankarsubramanian, an eminent IT expert presiding over the discussion, cited the example of Sarala Das, emphasizing the importance of preserving the glory of the Odia language. He commended the state government’s efforts in promoting the language.

Rekha Acharya, Chief of ISG, stressed that the current era is dominated by artificial intelligence (AI) and suggested using modern technology to convert Odia into English and other regional languages rapidly. Acharya predicted that, overcoming obstacles, Odia would become a prominent language in information technology.

Dr. Shailesh Kumar, Chief Data Scientist at the Centre of Excellence in AI/ML, Reliance Jio, discussed the evolution of language and the changing definition of artificial intelligence. He anticipated a revolutionary shift in the coming days, propelling the Odia language to new heights through information technology.

Bijendra Kumar, Partner at KPMG India, highlighted the challenge posed by the dominance of English in India, affecting the acquisition of knowledge in Odia. Kumar called for collective efforts to use modern technology to promote regional languages.

Vivekanand Pani, co-founder of Reverie Language Technologies, pointed out language gaps and the absence of Odia information on the internet, emphasizing the need to address these issues for the development of the Odia language.

Student speaker Ratik Kumar Panda explored various aspects of leveraging information technology for the advancement of the Odia language during the session.

Principal Secretary of the Electronics & Information Technology Department, Manoj Kumar Mishra, felicitated the guests. Special Secretary of the E&IT Department, Manas Ranjan Panda, OCAC CEO Manoj Kumar Patnaik, intellectuals, and college students attended the event.