A software that converts text into speech

'Vaachak', developed by Prologix Software Solutions, is the first, high-quality, Indian language TTS system, which converts Hindi and English text into natural and pleasant sounding speech, according to company president and managing director Vibhu Agarwal.

By enabling computers to read out text in Hindi and soon in other Indian languages, 'Vaachak' holds the capability to allow easy dissemination of information to all regardless of any physical impairments, including speech and sight impairments.

The software could also be used to impart knowledge to the uneducated as well. Although, TTS is a mature technology and is available in many languages across the world, there were none for Indian languages till recently, Agarwal said. 'Vaachak' is the first initiative in the country that has resulted in creating an international quality, local language speech synthesis software.

The software is being used by many state and central organisations, including National Association for the Blind, to remove information disability in all sectors.