Odisha Moves to Digitally Archive Indigenous Knowledge Using AI

Bhubaneswar: Experts, researchers and traditional knowledge practitioners on Wednesday emphasised the need to systematically document, validate and digitally preserve Odisha’s indigenous knowledge systems to ensure that the state’s rich cultural and scientific heritage is safeguarded for future generations.

The call was made during a two-day workshop on “Indigenous Knowledge Systems” organised by the Odia Virtual Academy under the Department of Electronics and Information Technology.

Speakers stressed that traditional knowledge related to agriculture, healthcare, crafts and natural resource management should be scientifically documented and integrated with modern technologies to preserve its relevance in the digital age.

Delivering the valedictory address, Padma Shri awardee and social worker Sabarmatee described indigenous knowledge as an invaluable part of Odisha’s cultural heritage and urged people, particularly the younger generation, to actively participate in preserving and promoting these traditions for sustainable development.

Chairing the session, Odia Virtual Academy Secretary Dr Pradeep Kumar Rout announced that the knowledge generated during the workshop would be digitally archived and further developed using emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI). He said the digitised repository would be made available through the Academy’s web portal, providing an important resource for researchers, students and the public.

Dr Rout also invited suggestions for expanding the Academy’s activities and strengthening collaborative efforts to document Odisha’s traditional knowledge systems.

The inaugural session featured Jagadananda, Founder of the Centre for Youth and Social Development (CYSD) and former Information Commissioner, who highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous wisdom through such initiatives. Dr Rout expressed confidence that scientists, academicians, traditional Vaidyas, farmers, fisherfolk and artisans would actively contribute to the documentation and conservation process.

More than 70 delegates from across Odisha participated in the workshop, which featured six technical sessions led by resource persons including Dr Balaram Sahu, Dr Haraprasad Mishra, Bhagaban Das, Dr Ambika Prasad Nayak and Ranjan Kumar Mahapatra.

The discussions covered a broad range of subjects, including agriculture, fisheries, animal husbandry, medicinal plants, traditional healthcare practices, forest-based livelihoods, handicrafts and natural resource management.