Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 -A Digital Initiative That Gives Tamil Learning a New Direction
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras' innovative education initiative, ‘Vidyashakthi’, has taken Tamil language teaching to new heights through digital media at Stall No. 26, Namo Ghat, Varanasi, as part of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0. In line with the theme ‘Tamil Karkalam’ (Learn Tamil), the initiative demonstrated how the language can be made simple, engaging and accessible to all through simulations, gaming, quizzes and interactive digital content.
Launched in 2021 under the leadership of Dr Shiva (IIT Madras), this initiative focuses on promoting education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics across 10 districts of Uttar Pradesh. It conducts live Tamil classes every day from 2:00 to 2:30 p.m. in 650 schools. During these sessions, students learn basic vocabulary, correct pronunciation, everyday conversations and how to recognise Tamil script in a simple and intuitive manner.
As part of the Tamil Karkalam initiative, Vidyashakthi also conducts special classes daily from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. for sanitary workers, NCC cadets and students. Sanitary workers learn sentences relevant to their work, cadets are taught commands and parade terminology and students study Tamil using charts based on the ‘Flow Learn’ model. This initiative is positioning Tamil as a practical language for everyday life and work, rather than just a subject to be studied.
Vidyashakti has extended its reach both across India and abroad. Today, the initiative is active in 7,210 villages in India and 5,000 villages in Sri Lanka. In Uttar Pradesh, it was launched by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and the first edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam played a key role in its introduction. The initiative received special recognition from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during the second and third editions. The document “Solutions” presented to the Prime Minister highlights five major national challenges, addressing issues related to India’s overall development beyond education.
In particular, Vidyashakti’s Digital Didi programme is making a unique effort to empower women, youth, first-generation college students, single mothers and eldest daughters across the country. The programme provides them digital skills training and self-reliance. Participants who complete the training are paid Rs. 2000 per month for just one hour of daily contribution, creating a direct connection between digital education and livelihood opportunities.
The IIT Madras and Vidyashakti team express their gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Kashi Tamil Sangamam and the organising committee for the opportunity to showcase this innovative model of Tamil language, science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, and digital empowerment on the sacred land of Kashi. The team emphasises that this initiative truly reflects the vision of “Tamil Karkalam,” where language becomes a bridge that connects people. Through this effort, Vidyashakti also strengthens the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,” by unifying the linguistic and cultural diversity of the country.
