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By:

Quaid Najmi

4 January 2025 at 3:26:24 pm

President takes prompt cognizance

Mumbai: President Droupadi Murmu has taken immediate cognizance of a plea pointing at grave insults to the Indian Tricolour (Tiranga) in pubs and hotels, violations to the Flag Code of India, 2002, in the name of celebrating Republic Day and Independence Day. Pune businessman-cum-activist Prafful Sarda had shot off a complaint to the President on Jan. 26 but was surprised to receive a response from her office in less than 72 hours. Under Secretary Lakshmi Maharabooshanam in the President’s...

President takes prompt cognizance

Mumbai: President Droupadi Murmu has taken immediate cognizance of a plea pointing at grave insults to the Indian Tricolour (Tiranga) in pubs and hotels, violations to the Flag Code of India, 2002, in the name of celebrating Republic Day and Independence Day. Pune businessman-cum-activist Prafful Sarda had shot off a complaint to the President on Jan. 26 but was surprised to receive a response from her office in less than 72 hours. Under Secretary Lakshmi Maharabooshanam in the President’s Secretariat at Rashtrapati Bhavan, replied to Sarda on forwarding his complaint to the Ministry of Home Affairs for necessary action. It further stated that action taken in the matter must be conveyed directly to Sarda. “It’s a pleasant surprise indeed that the President has taken serious note of the issue of insults to the National Flag at night-clubs, pubs, lounges, sports bars and other places all over the country. The blatant mishandling of the National Flag also violates the specially laid-down provisions of the Flag Code of India,” said Sarda. He pointed out that the Tricolor is a sacred symbol and not a ‘commercial prop’ for entertainment purposes to be used by artists without disregard for the rules. “There are multiple videos, reels or photos available on social media… It's painful to view how the National Flag is being grossly misused, disrespected and even displayed at late nights or early morning hours, flouting the rules,” Sarda said. The more worrisome aspect is that such transgressions are occurring openly, repeatedly and apparently without any apprehensions for the potential consequences. This indicates serious lapses in the enforcement and supervision, but such unchecked abuse could portend dangerous signals that national symbols can be ‘trivialized and traded for profits’. He urged the President to direct the issue of stringent written guidelines with circular to all such private or commercial outlets on mandatory compliance with the Flag Code of India, conduct special awareness drives, surprise checks on such venues and regular inspections to curb the misuse of the Tricolour. Flag Code of India, 2002 Perturbed over the “perceptible lack of awareness” not only among the masses but also governmental agencies with regard to the laws, practices and conventions for displaying the National Flag as per the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950 and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, the centre had brought out the detailed 25-page Flag Code of India, 2002. The Flag Code of India has minute guidelines on the display of the Tricolour, the happy occasions when it flies high, or the sad times when it is at half-mast, the privileged dignitaries who are entitled to display it on their vehicles, etc. Certain violations attract hefty fines and/or imprisonment till three years.

AI Meets Language Learning: A New Era in Education

AI is no longer merely assisting in language learning; it’s transforming how we speak, write, and connect.

I speak three languages, write in two, and dream in one. – Kamla Das (Indian English poet)


In a world where language is deeply tied to identity, thought, and expression, artificial intelligence is playing a pivotal role in reshaping how we learn and use language. From personalised learning paths to real-time feedback, AI is transforming interpersonal communication, language acquisition, and public speaking, especially among students. In the age of rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence is transforming every corner of human life, education being no exception to it. One of the most exciting developments in this space is how AI is revolutionising language learning, making it more personalised, efficient, and accessible than ever before.


It provides personalised learning, real-time feedback, and interactive real-life experiences. There are different tools and variables for sampling in pedagogy. AI-based language learning uses technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, and large language models to customise and enhance the learning process. Teaching and learning through AI can facilitate employment. In today’s highly competitive job market, especially in the technical and corporate sectors, strong communication skills have become essential for securing employment and sustaining career growth. AI-driven chatbots, like ChatGPT, can simulate real-life conversations, helping students practice speaking and writing English. Other tools like Google's Speech-to-Text and ELSA Speak help improve pronunciation and fluency. It even provides real-time corrections for grammar, style, and vocabulary.


Traditional methods of language learning face challenges such as limited teacher availability, lack of immersion, and one-size-fits-all teaching. AI tools address issues by offering interactive and adaptive experiences. There are some revolutionary platforms like Duolingo, Babbel, and Enguru, which provide customised exercises to strengthen English proficiency. With the help of this weapon, one can generate personalised writing topics and provide instant feedback to enhance technical writing and documentation skills. AI brought a new perspective to soft skills training, like mock interview platforms that analyse tone, clarity, and confidence to provide constructive feedback. Apart from that, it has changed the scenario of analysing speech patterns and providing insights on improving articulation, argument structure, and confidence in group discussion, presentation, debate, and other media of assessments.


AI-powered language tools are often accessible from smartphones and require no physical infrastructure, but they open up opportunities for students in remote or underprivileged regions. Many platforms offer free or low-cost access, ensuring that language education is not restricted to the elite. AI has also been crucial in developing new formats and techniques for presentation and public speaking. Speech Analytics Software AI-powered tools like Orai and Yoodli analyse speaking speed, filler words, and clarity, helping students improve presentation skills. It also features automated speech evaluation. AI can assess pronunciation, intonation, and fluency to refine speaking abilities. AI also facilitates content generation for official correspondence, technical communication, and other soft skills. It assists in drafting writing. AI tools can help draft project reports, research papers, and technical documents more effectively. We benefit from real-time translation and multilingual support by AI; tools like Google Translate help students understand and express complex concepts in multiple languages.


AI focuses on collaboration and networking, such as tools like Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT, which help students draft professional emails and even discussion forums. These platforms moderate and provide feedback on student discussions, improving their online communication skills. AI has had a spellbound impact on the technical and engineering field through its implementation in Indian engineering institutions. Integration in curriculum: AI-based communication training modules can be embedded into engineering programs. In many universities, AI-powered language labs have started for real-time practice and assessment. Overall, by leveraging AI, engineering students in India can significantly enhance their communication skills, making them more industry-ready and globally competitive.


In a nutshell, as AI continues to evolve, its role in language learning will only grow stronger. The key lies in using it thoughtfully to enhance, not overshadow, the human element in education. With the right balance, AI can help create a multilingual world where learning is easier, faster, and more engaging than ever before.


(The author is an assistant Professor of Language and Literature. Views personal.)

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