World Punjabi Conference Opens at GNDU to Discuss AI's Role in Preserving Punjabi Language

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Karamjeet Singh described the conference as a forward-looking effort aimed at guiding academic and cultural dialogue. File Photo.

World Punjabi Conference Opens at GNDU to Discuss AI’s Role in Preserving Punjabi Language

Amid the ongoing AI Summit in New Delhi, Guru Nanak Dev University inaugurated the first three-day World Punjabi Conference, focusing on the role of Artificial Intelligence in shaping the future of Punjabi language, culture and society. The event brought together scholars, policymakers, technologists and members of the Punjabi diaspora.

Member of Parliament Vikramjit Singh Sawhney announced a grant of Rs 1 crore for the university’s Centre of Ethical Artificial Intelligence, saying the initiative would help students connect with new technologies while preserving their cultural identity.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Karamjeet Singh described the conference as a forward-looking effort aimed at guiding academic and cultural dialogue. He said AI is one of the most influential fields today but stressed that technology must remain guided by ethics and human values. He expressed confidence that Punjabi can actively participate in the digital era.

Speakers noted that although AI is transforming global systems, its development should remain grounded in moral awareness. Former Chief Secretary KBS Sidhu said discussions could help link the Punjabi language with global technological platforms. Former MP Tarlochan Singh highlighted AI’s potential in preserving Punjabi literature and heritage while raising concerns about declining familiarity with the Gurmukhi script. He further said that to promote and safeguard the Gurmukhi script, he has established the first Gurmukhi Script Centre at Delhi University.

Dr Satbir Singh Gosal cautioned against bias in AI systems. Punjab MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal also pledged financial assistance on behalf of the Punjab Government for the AI Centre set up in memory of the late Surjit Patar.

A play titled "1675", based on the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur, was presented during the event. Written by Amarjit Singh Grewal and directed by Kewal Dhaliwal, the production underscored the continuing significance of the Guru’s sacrifice in today’s era of Artificial Intelligence.

Source: The Tribune