A three-day All-India Dravidian Linguistics Conference commenced at Punjabi University in Patiala on Thursday, bringing together renowned linguists, scholars, and researchers from across the country to deliberate on language, culture, and emerging technologies.
Conference Organization
The national-level conference is jointly organized by the university's Department of Punjabi, Department of Linguistics and Punjabi Lexicography, Patiala Linguistics Association, Dravidian Linguistics Association, and the International School of Dravidian Linguistics. It is being held with support from the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysore, and the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi.
Vice-Chancellor's Address
Punjabi University Vice-Chancellor Jagdeep Singh stressed the need to preserve linguistic diversity. He emphasized that language is not merely a medium of communication but a symbol of society's culture, heritage, and identity. "When a language disappears, an entire culture and centuries of knowledge disappear with it. Preserving linguistic diversity is our collective responsibility," he said. The VC also highlighted Punjabi University's longstanding commitment to promoting Punjabi language, culture, and linguistic research, adding that such conferences help strengthen academic understanding between northern and southern Indian languages.
Keynote Address on AI
Delivering the keynote address, noted linguist MJ Warsi of Aligarh Muslim University stressed the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in preserving India's linguistic heritage. He said AI, guided by linguists, could become a powerful tool for educational expansion and national integration, while cautioning that minority and indigenous languages remain underrepresented in current AI models.
Call for Collaboration
Former Tamil University Vice-Chancellor K Karunakaran called for linking higher education with societal needs and urged research institutions to strengthen collaboration. The conference aims to foster dialogue on linguistic diversity, technology integration, and cultural preservation, with sessions planned over the three days.
