QUETTA: In a landmark achievement for linguistic preservation, the Balochi Academy Quetta has officially launched a comprehensive Online Digital Dictionary for the Balochi language. This pioneering resource, developed under the Natural Language Processing for Balochi Project, represents the most extensive lexical compilation for Balochi, featuring over 40,000 words.
The digital platform provides detailed entries with meanings and equivalents in four languages: Balochi, English, Urdu, and Brahui. This multilingual design aims to serve a wide audience, including students, researchers, and the global Baloch diaspora, facilitating learning, translation, and academic study.
Chairman of the Balochi Academy, Mr. Habitan Umer, highlighted that this launch culminates years of scholarly work, building upon earlier printed dictionaries compiled by figures like Jan Muhammad Dahsti and Dr. Naseer Dashti. Linguists have praised the initiative as a crucial step in safeguarding Balochi, a language traditionally dependent on oral history. The dictionary standardizes vocabulary and provides a definitive resource for education and cultural preservation.
By offering free online access, the Academy ensures this tool will support future generations in maintaining their linguistic heritage. The project also sets a significant precedent for using digital technology to revitalize and promote regional languages worldwide.
Meanwhile the Balochistan Assembly session commenced 44 minutes late on Friday, chaired by Speaker Captain (R) Abdul Khaliq Achakzai, and quickly delved into critical issues of law, order, and cybercrime.
Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, responding to opposition queries, disclosed a disturbing new modus operandi used in bank robberies in Panjgur. He stated that armed individuals conceal weapons under chadors (shawls), enter banks posing as customers, execute heists within 30 minutes, and escape. The CM assured the house that action against these robbers would be taken soon.
The session began on a somber note as CM Bugti offered Fateha for renowned journalist and his friend, the late Raja Matlub, praying for his soul and patience for the bereaved family.
