WebDesk Patiala
5 February 2024
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
In a proactive move, Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhawan led discussions with various departments and Punjabi intellectuals to promote the inclusion of the Punjabi language on Google’s Gemini I platform. The exclusive initiative aims to ensure that Punjabi is added to the platform’s AI capabilities within the next six months.
Expressing concern during a meeting at the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Secretariat, Sandhawan highlighted that although Google’s Gemini I app incorporates languages like Gujarati and Marathi, Punjabi is notably absent. He attributed this omission to the unavailability of Punjabi vocabulary/data for AI integration.
Sandhawan emphasized the urgency of swiftly compiling and uploading Punjabi language data online, envisioning its completion within the next six months. He stressed that this initiative is vital for allowing Punjabi to join the ranks of other languages already supported by Google’s AI platform.
The Speaker underscored the significance of including Punjabi in the era of machine intelligence, noting that without its representation, translation capabilities to and from Punjabi would be compromised. He asserted that as one of the top 10 most spoken languages globally, Punjabi’s presence on the AI platform is crucial, considering its widespread usage in Lower Punjab, Upper Punjab, various Indian states, and across the globe.
Sandhawan warned that without these efforts, Punjabis might be compelled to use Hindi or resort to other languages, posing a threat to Punjabi’s existence. Notable Punjabi figures, including poet Dr. Surjit Patar and critic Dr. Amarjit Singh Grewal, supported the initiative. Representatives from the Punjab Higher Education Department, Administrative Reforms Department, Language Department Punjab, and Punjabi University Patiala were also present, collectively contributing to the push for Punjabi’s inclusion in the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.