Why is Digital and Internet Content Lacking in Assamese and Odia Languages Compared to Other Indian Languages?
The question of why digital and internet content is lacking in Assamese and Odia languages, in comparison to other mainstream Indian languages, can be attributed to a combination of cultural indifference, government apathy, and technological gaps. This essay delves into the socio-political and technological factors that contribute to this phenomenon, providing insights and solutions for improving digital accessibility in these languages.
Cultural Indifference
Indifference is a significant factor when it comes to the development and promotion of digital and internet content in Assamese and Odia. Many Odia and Assamese citizens do not prioritize their digital footprint, choosing to communicate and consume content primarily in other languages.
According to a survey, an estimated 70% of people in Odisha and Assam do not even realize that these regions are integral parts of India. This dissociation from a broader national identity contributes to a reduced interest in promoting and using digital content in their native languages.
Government Apathy
The attitude of the Indian government has historically been one of indifference towards the digital and internet needs of regions like Odisha and Assam. This apathy is evident in various ways, including:
Slow recognition of these states as significant parts of India until recently. For instance, the government did not officially recognize Odisha as a state until after the 2014 elections, referring to it as a place "near Bengal where Maoists live."
Lack of emphasis on digital initiatives and policies that specifically target the states of Assam and Odisha.
Insufficient funding and resources allocated to digital infrastructure development in these regions.
Another example of government apathy is the lack of visibility for Odia content on Google's India homepage. While Google services are available in Odia, this information is not prominently highlighted, leading to a low awareness among the populace.
Technological Gaps
The technological gap also plays a crucial role in the lack of digital and internet content in Assamese and Odia languages. Several factors contribute to this gap:
Limited availability of internet infrastructure, particularly in rural and remote areas of Odisha and Assam.
Insufficient investment in developing digital tools and platforms that support these languages.
Shortage of skilled manpower to develop and maintain content in these languages.
Low literacy rates in these languages, which in turn discourages the development of digital content.
Moreover, the majority of tech giants and content creators have predominantly focused on languages with larger user bases, thereby neglecting the needs of smaller linguistic communities.
Consequences and Solutions
The lack of digital and internet content in Assamese and Odia languages can have severe consequences, including:
Information disparity and limited access to digital services among users who primarily speak these languages.
Delayed technological advancements in these regions, which could otherwise drive economic growth and social progress.
Diminished cultural identity and the risk of losing linguistic diversity.
To address these issues, a multi-pronged approach is necessary:
Government initiatives to recognize and support these languages through policy measures and allocation of specific funding for digital infrastructure development.
Investment in technology and digital development to overcome the technological gaps.
Enhanced education and awareness campaigns to encourage the digital adoption of Assamese and Odia languages.
Support from tech companies, media platforms, and other stakeholders to promote and develop content in these languages.
By addressing these challenges, we can ensure that the digital and internet presence of Assamese and Odia languages is significantly enhanced, promoting greater inclusivity and linguistic diversity in the digital age.