Chennai: At the International Linguistics Olympiad (IOL) 2024 held in Brasília, Brazil, Team India made a remarkable impact, securing one silver medal, two bronze medals, and an Honourable Mention.

Competing against 206 participants from 51 teams across 38 countries, Indian contestants showcased their linguistic skills with Animikha Dutta Dhar earning a silver medal, Shrilakshmi Venkatraman and Faraz Ahmed Siddiqui winning bronze medals, and Ananya Agarwal receiving an Honourable Mention.

India's journey at the IOL began in 2009 with a unique start due to the absence of a national Linguistics Olympiad. Initially, an ad-hoc team of three students was formed, who went on to win a silver medal and the 'Best Solution' award in their debut.

Since then, India has participated in 15 Olympiads, amassing 31 medals and numerous awards.

The selection process for Team India has evolved, with the Asia Pacific Linguistics Olympiad (APLO) playing a crucial role in recent years.

The Panini Linguistics Olympiad (PLO) now screens and trains candidates, fostering interest in linguistics. This year's PLO camp, held at IIITH, prepared two teams for the IOL.

Indian teams were warmly welcomed by the Indian Embassy in Brazil, highlighting the support and pride of the Indian community.