Rasmita Tripathy

Associate Professor and HoD, Dept. of Odia, KISS Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar [email protected]

Jayasmita Kuanr

Assistant Professor, Dept. of English, KISS Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar [email protected]

DOI: 

Abstract

A tribal language is being eroded and it is a massive cultural crisis of the twenty-first century. With the ongoing marginalization of the indigenous voices in mainstream educational systems coupled with the process of globalization, technology can be used as a possible tool of rejuvenation. It is explored in this paper that the latest technological developments, such as mobile applications, digital storytelling, AI-based linguistic tools, and online archives created by communities can become agents of change in the process of restoring endangered tribal languages. Based on case studies of India and other worldwide indigenous situations, the study highlights the importance of joint projects of linguists, technologists, and tribal groups in supporting the maintenance of their language. This is not only the archiving of the vocabulary or grammar, but the revival of identity, the retrieval of oral traditions, the enabling of the communities to be proud of their language heritage. The human factor plays a critical role, with its elders turning into digital storytellers, children becoming interactive learners, and the native speakers becoming creators and controllers of their linguistic fates. Although issues like access inequalities and cultural sensitivity to digital access continue to pose challenges, the research posits that with ethically-directed and community-based uses of technology, the language can be seen as dead instead of dying through proper application of technology. Therefore, this current paper is a call towards a balance between tradition and innovation, with the tribal languages being not only written, but also spoken, sung, coded, and lived in the cyber age.

Keywords: Tribal, languages, revival, digital, indigenous, AI, preservation

KISS International Journal of Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Sustainability (KIJEIS) 2025 Jul, Vol.1 (2): 57 – 68