India Launches BharatGen Project to Enhance Generative AI Accessibility in Local Languages

India has introduced BharatGen, a pioneering initiative aimed at making generative AI accessible in various Indian languages. Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh highlighted that this is the first state-funded project of its kind globally. The initiative is led by IIT Bombay under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) and aims to produce high-quality text and multimodal content in multiple Indian languages.

The launch event saw participation from key figures such as Principal Scientific Advisor A K Sood, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Abhay Karandikar, and Department of Telecommunications Secretary Neeraj Mittal. Minister Singh sent a video message for the occasion. Sood also introduced four thematic hubs (T-Hubs) focusing on Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing and Metrology, and Quantum Materials and Devices under the National Quantum Mission (NQM).

Quantum Research and Development

The T-Hubs are established at prestigious institutions like IISc Bengaluru, IIT Madras, Centre for Development of Telematics New Delhi, IIT Bombay, and IIT Delhi. These hubs will drive research and innovation in quantum technologies, positioning India as a leader in these fields. The hubs consist of 17 Technical Groups spread across 17 states and two union territories.

Each T-Hub follows a Hub-Spoke-Spike model to support a network of research projects (Spokes) and individual research groups (Spikes). This model enhances collaboration among research institutions by pooling resources and expertise. The initiative aims to foster a collaborative ecosystem where researchers can develop innovative solutions together.

BharatGen's Unique Approach

BharatGen stands out as the world's first government-funded multimodal large language model project focused on Indian languages. A significant aspect of BharatGen is its open-source foundational models designed to democratise AI across India. This approach is expected to create a collaborative environment for researchers and developers.

The project emphasises data-efficient learning, crucial for Indian languages with limited digital presence. Through fundamental research and partnerships with academic institutions, BharatGen will develop models effective with minimal data, addressing the needs of languages underserved by global AI initiatives.

The initiative is projected to be completed within two years, benefiting government bodies, private sectors, educational institutions, and research organisations. By enhancing AI accessibility, BharatGen aims to build an inclusive AI ecosystem in India.