MeitY conducted a brainstorming session with researchers and startups on 24th May 2022. The session aimed to shape the strategy for Digital India BHASHINI, India’s AI-led language translation platform. The Government wants to integrate startups into the process of innovation, development and consumption of technology. 

MoS, MeitY, Rajeev Chandrasekhar stated that “It is an important part of PM Modi’s vision to provide opportunities for Indian youth and connect the country”. He added that while BaratNet and 5G will catalyze ‘connecting all Indians’ to the internet goal, Bhashini will ensure citizens consume the internet and Digital government service in their languages. 

The Bhashini Platform will make AI and NLP resources available to MSMEs, startups and individuals. The platform is interoperable and will catalyze the entire digital ecosystem. 

The Mission is aimed to create and nurture an ecosystem in the country involving the Central, State, Government agencies and startups to develop and deploy innovative products and services in Indian languages. The brainstorming session was held through video conferencing to encourage the representation of startups. 

Through Bhashini, the Government aims to increase content in Indian languages on the internet. Especially in domains of public interest, like governance, policy, science and technology. MoS further added that startups are an essential part of our digital ecosystem. Therefore, they will be supported for developing India specific and Indian languages enabled IT solutions through Mission Digital India Bhashini. He also stated that he hopes this initiative leads to more AL/Language based startups becoming Unicorns.