The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has launched Adi Vaani, India’s first AI-powered translator for tribal languages, developed with IIT Delhi and partner institutes. The platform will digitize endangered dialects, bridge communication gaps, and empower tribal communities, aligning with Digital India and the vision of an inclusive Viksit Bharat 2047.
In a historic step towards digital inclusion, cultural preservation, and empowerment of tribal communities, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has launched the Beta Version of Adi Vaani, India’s first AI-powered translation platform for tribal languages. The landmark initiative was unveiled at Samrasta Hall, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, during the ongoing celebrations of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh (JJGV).
The event witnessed the presence of Shri Durgadas Uikey, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, who inaugurated the platform by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Senior dignitaries, including Shri Vibhu Nayar, Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Professor Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT Delhi (via video conferencing), Shri Anant Prakash Pandey, Joint Secretary, Ms. Deepali Masirkar, Director, and several leading academics from IIT Delhi and other institutions, also participated. The launch was joined virtually by all State Tribal Research Institutes (TRIs) and experts in tribal linguistics, reflecting the collaborative spirit behind the project.
Preserving Languages, Empowering Communities
Addressing the gathering, Shri Uikey emphasized the importance of language as the foundation of cultural identity and as a vital link between communities. He noted that Adi Vaani will bridge communication gaps for tribal populations living in remote and underserved areas. The platform is expected to empower tribal youth digitally, strengthen their connection to cultural roots, and ensure last-mile delivery of services under the Adi Karmayogi framework.
Shri Vibhu Nayar described Adi Vaani as an affordable and frugal innovation, developed at nearly one-tenth the cost of commercial platforms. He highlighted that the platform integrates authentic linguistic data collected by TRIs, and includes a feedback system to ensure continuous community-led improvements.
Professor Rangan Banerjee of IIT Delhi called Adi Vaani a pioneering example of how artificial intelligence can be applied to preserve languages, cultures, and traditions while making a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Shri Anant Prakash Pandey added that the loss of language means the erosion of culture and heritage, and praised the project as a joint effort between Central Government, State Governments, and premier technical institutions.
About Adi Vaani
Adi Vaani goes far beyond being a translation tool—it is a digital platform designed to preserve tribal heritage while enabling practical access to services. It supports:
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Real-time text and speech translation between Hindi, English, and tribal languages.
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Interactive language learning modules for students and early learners.
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Digitization of folklore, oral traditions, and cultural knowledge.
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Subtitled advisories, health information, and Prime Minister’s speeches in tribal languages.
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Inclusive access to education, healthcare, and governance in native dialects.
The tool has been developed by a national consortium led by IIT Delhi, in collaboration with BITS Pilani, IIIT Hyderabad, IIIT Nava Raipur, and Tribal Research Institutes from Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Meghalaya. The platform is available at https://adivaani.tribal.gov.in, with the Beta version of the mobile app to be launched soon on Play Store and iOS.
At this stage, Adi Vaani supports Santali (Odisha), Bhili (Madhya Pradesh), Mundari (Jharkhand), and Gondi (Chhattisgarh), with Kui and Garo currently under development. A live demonstration during the event showcased real-time translation in Bhili and Gondi, validated by experts from TRIs.
Towards Viksit Bharat 2047
The initiative aligns with the national vision of Digital India, Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, PM JANMAN, Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan, and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan. By digitizing tribal linguistic heritage, Adi Vaani represents a pioneering global model for low-resource language preservation.
Importantly, the platform is expected to empower over 20 lakh tribal youth and community leaders, enabling them to participate in India’s growth story and contribute towards the vision of an inclusive, knowledge-driven Viksit Bharat by 2047.
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The launch of Adi Vaani demonstrates how technology, when combined with cultural sensitivity and community participation, can transform governance, education, healthcare, and social empowerment. It marks a defining moment in India’s journey toward preserving its rich tribal heritage while embracing digital innovation.
