MIB Launches AI Challenges for Language Inclusion

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is fast-tracking the use of AI/ML solutions to overcome language barriers in India and is inviting startups to help build inclusive, last-mile digital communication via the WaveX platform.

Highlights:

• Secretary Shri Sanjay Jaju held discussions with AI startups at T-Hub, Hyderabad
• Emphasis on inclusive communication and the creator economy
• Launch of two national innovation challenges: Kalaa Setu and Bhasha Setu
• Startups encouraged to register via WaveX portal
• Winners to receive MoU, pilot with AIR/DD/PIB, and full incubation support
• WaveX supports innovation in media, entertainment, and language technology

Hyderabad, July 18, 2025:
In a significant step toward fostering linguistic inclusivity and advancing last-mile digital communication, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) is actively promoting AI/ML-based technology solutions to overcome language barriers across India. Today, Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, held an interactive session with startups and incubators at T-Hub, Hyderabad, India’s largest innovation hub.

The event saw participation from emerging startups, the CEO of T-Hub, representatives of IIT Hyderabad, and Centres of Excellence from NITs and leading engineering institutions, all of whom are working on cutting-edge AI and machine learning solutions.

Shri Jaju highlighted the Government of India’s strong focus on empowering the creator economy and promoting linguistic diversity, stating:“In line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision, the Ministry has launched the WaveX Startup Accelerator to empower innovators who can build scalable, inclusive digital platforms for India’s diverse linguistic landscape.”

As part of this mission, the Ministry has announced two flagship challenges under the WaveX platform:

• Bhasha Setu: Aimed at enabling seamless multilingual content translation and dissemination using AI
• Kalaa Setu: Focused on promoting indigenous content creation and cultural expression through technology

Startups and innovators are invited to register for these challenges through the WaveX portal, where they can also access detailed technical requirements. Shortlisted teams will have the opportunity to present their solutions before a national jury in New Delhi. The winners will receive an MoU for full-scale development, pilot implementation with All India Radio (AIR), Doordarshan (DD), and the Press Information Bureau (PIB), along with incubation support under the WaveX Innovation Platform.

About WaveX:
WaveX is the dedicated startup accelerator under the Ministry’s broader WAVES initiative, designed to fuel innovation in the fields of media, entertainment, and language technology. At the recent WAVES Summit held in Mumbai in May 2025, over 30 startups pitched their solutions directly to government bodies, investors, and industry leaders. WaveX remains a driving force in shaping India’s next-gen digital media ecosystem through focused hackathons, expert mentorship, and strategic incubation.

This initiative reinforces India’s leadership in responsible, inclusive AI innovation—creating scalable solutions that reflect the country’s rich linguistic and cultural fabric.

Call to Action:
Startups, innovators, and creators are encouraged to be part of this transformative journey by participating in the Kalaa Setu and Bhasha Setu challenges. For registration and complete details, visit https://wavex.wavesbazaar.com.