Overcoming the Language Barrier in India with ANUSAARAKA

Title: Overcoming the Language Barrier in India with ANUSAARAKA

Authors: Akshar Bharati, Vineet Chaitanya, Amba P. Kulkarni, Rajeev Sangal, and G. Umamaheshwar Rao

Abstract: The ANUSAARAKA system allows users to read text in one Indian language in another Indian language. This system works by dividing the load between the user and the computer. The computer presents an image of the source text in a language close to the target language. Some constructions from the source language may not have equivalents, but the user can learn to read and understand the output after some training. The output can also be post-edited to make it grammatically correct in the target language. This system functions as a human-assisted translation system and can be built for all Indian languages.

Research Question: How can we develop a system that helps users overcome the language barrier in India by translating text between different Indian languages?

Methodology: The researchers developed the ANUSAARAKA system, which stands for "Overcoming the Language Barrier in India." They built this system using five Indian languages: Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, Bengali, and Punjabi, translating them to Hindi. They used a human-assisted translation approach, where the machine presents an image of the source text in a language close to the target language, and the user interprets and translates the text.

Results: The researchers found that the ANUSAARAKA system can effectively translate text between different Indian languages. The system is designed to be user-friendly, and with some training, users can learn to read and understand the output. The output can also be post-edited to make it grammatically correct in the target language.

Implications: The ANUSAARAKA system has significant implications for language learning and communication in India. It provides a practical solution for overcoming the language barrier, making it easier for users to access and understand text in different Indian languages. The system can also be expanded to include all Indian languages, further promoting language learning and communication across the country.

In conclusion, the ANUSAARAKA system is a valuable tool for overcoming the language barrier in India. It provides a practical and user-friendly solution for translating text between different Indian languages, making it easier for users to access and understand text in their target language.

Link to Article: https://arxiv.org/abs/0308018v1 Authors: arXiv ID: 0308018v1