A new keyboard debuted at the three-day Odia Bhasa Sammilani (World Odia Language Conference) held here on Saturday, signalling a concerted effort to facilitate the use of the Odia language in digital formats among school students.

A senior official said: “Now a student will be able to articulate their emotions and thoughts on a computer seamlessly. This initiative endeavours to bridge the gap between the ancient and modern ages.”

The primary objective of the conference is to safeguard, promote and encourage the younger generation to integrate the Odia language into their daily lives.

In his inaugural address, Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik affirmed: “Odia is a classical language with a rich history. I firmly believe that the Odia language holds a promising future.”

He announced the establishment of an Odia language university and pledged his government’s commitment to implementing robust language policies based on the resolutions passed at the conference. “We must acknowledge our past, evaluate the present, and chart a new course for the future. Delving into our linguistic heritage, celebrating literature and forging new paths are paramount,” he said.

Throughout the event, the conference highlighted the evolution of the language across different epochs. It showcased the journey from the development of Odia alphabets to the emergence of Odia as a distinct language, emphasising how the state’s linguistic identity contributed to its formation and served as a model for other states.

The conference featured a meticulously curated exhibition, showcasing Odisha’s illustrious past, its transformative present and its aspirations for the future. It depicted Odisha’s historical significance as one of the six classical languages of India and its influence on other linguistic traditions.

Exhibits included ancient rock edicts, copper plate inscriptions, palm leaf manuscripts, Kalinga-style temple architecture as well as maritime and trade history.

The event underscored the evolution of Odia literature and highlighted the contributions of renowned writers. It celebrated the literary renaissance during the medieval period and prominently featured portraits of distinguished Odia language luminaries.

During the ceremony, Naveen honoured eminent litterateur Debiprasanna Pattnayak with a lifetime achievement award, accompanied by a cash prize of Rs 20 lakh. Jnanpith awardee and Padma Bibhusan Sitakanta Mohapatra, along with Pratibha Ray, were also felicitated for their contributions to literature.

Academician Arlo Griffths expressed his profound affinity for the language during his address. The event witnessed the presence of Odia language, literature and culture minister Aswini Patra, department secretary Sujata R. Karthikeyan, among other dignitaries.