India Launches AI Tribal Language Translator “Adi Vani”
The Indian government has announced the launch of India’s first AI-powered tribal language translator, “Adi Vani,” under a historic initiative for tribal communities. The translator will be available in a beta version from September 1, 2025, aiming to preserve the country’s linguistic diversity, digitize tribal languages, and empower tribal communities by providing digital facilities in their mother tongues. Through this initiative, efforts are being made to connect India’s cultural and linguistic heritage with technological advancements.
Adi Vani
According to the 2011 Census of India, the country is home to 461 tribal languages, of which 71 are recognized as distinct mother tongues. Unfortunately, 81 of these languages are classified as endangered, while 42 are critically endangered. In response to this challenge, the central government has developed “Adi Vani,” which leverages AI technology to preserve, promote, and revive tribal languages.
The project has been developed by leading technical institutions including IIT Delhi, BITS Pilani, IIIT Hyderabad, and IIT Naya Raipur, in collaboration with Tribal Research Institutes (TRIs). Its primary objective is to integrate tribal languages with the modern digital era and ensure their continued existence.
Initial Languages and Expansion Plans
In its beta version, “Adi Vani” will initially support four major tribal languages—Santali (Odisha), Bhili (Madhya Pradesh), Mundari (Jharkhand), and Gondi (Chhattisgarh). By connecting these languages digitally, other languages such as Kui and Garo will be added over time, covering a broader spectrum of linguistic diversity.
Technical Features and Functionality
“Adi Vani” utilizes state-of-the-art AI models like No Language Left Behind (NLLB) and IndicTrans2, enabling real-time translation between Hindi, English, and tribal languages. The platform is versatile, offering features such as text-to-speech, speech-to-text, and optical character recognition (OCR). Beyond translation, it also facilitates the digitization of manuscripts and oral traditions.
With this technology, services such as government schemes, health awareness (including information on sickle cell disease), and subtitles for Prime Ministerial speeches will be available in tribal languages. This ensures that tribal populations receive accurate and effective information in their native languages.
From Cultural Preservation to Inclusive Governance
The aim of the Adi Vani project is not only the preservation of languages but also the protection of cultural heritage and the provision of mother tongue support in areas such as education and healthcare for tribal communities. This initiative strengthens tribal identity, safeguards cultural expressions, and promotes inclusive governance in India.
Through the platform, folklore and cultural knowledge will be digitized, ensuring the intergenerational preservation of rare and valuable community resources. Additionally, it will serve as a powerful medium connecting tribal communities to their rights and government programs.
Adi Vani as a National Mission
The project aligns with major national campaigns such as Digital India, Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan, Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, and PM Janman. Adi Vani will function as a dedicated national mission for tribal communities, connecting them to the digital world through their mother tongue.
The Ministry has urged citizens, educators, activists, and tribal communities to participate in this mission and contribute actively to the cultural celebration and preservation of India’s tribal languages.
User Accessibility and App Availability
The Adi Vani app is now available on the Google Play Store, with an iOS version expected soon. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible to tribal communities, enabling them to communicate, access education, and benefit from government services in their native languages.
Future Prospects and Significance
The first beta release of Adi Vani marks a significant milestone for India’s tribal linguistic resources. With future expansion and the inclusion of new languages, this project will play a crucial role in safeguarding the linguistic future of India’s tribal populations.
This national initiative will not only give new life to tribal languages but also help secure global recognition for them. Moreover, the technology will preserve the voices of tribal communities on digital platforms, creating an invaluable heritage for future generations.
Conclusion
In this way, “Adi Vani” represents a unique Indian government initiative, bridging technology and culture to advance the preservation, promotion, and social inclusion of tribal languages. The project is set to protect India’s cultural treasure while bringing meaningful improvements to the lives of tribal communities.
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