Science communication in Indian languages: A case study of scientific reporting through translation

Science is an integral part of our society, and modern technology has made the discovery of scientific phenomena commonplace. In India, most people learn about these discoveries through media reporting and translation into various languages. This makes scientific reporting in newspapers a daunting task, as it requires both subject knowledge and linguistic creativity to ensure accuracy in language translation. Whether discussing the frightening pandemic or celebrating the launch of the Chandrayaan, effective scientific reporting is crucial. The genre of popular science is primarily disseminated through newspapers, which are often filled with debates and discussions about science and technology that require equivalence and accuracy to educate the Indian population about the latest scientific breakthroughs. Translation plays a pivotal role in scientific reporting, as translating scientific registers, jargon, and technical terminologies is essential due to the distinct nature of scientific writing compared to creative writing or general communication. Media reporters are crucial in disseminating scientific awareness, but the mistranslation of technical jargon and scientific concepts can distort the content, leading to misinformation and disrupting the knowledge dissemination process. With new scientific discoveries frequently emerging, especially from the West, reporters face the dual challenge of ensuring linguistic and conceptual accuracy while meeting the urgency of news reporting. Demonstrable gaps exist in scientific reporting in translation, particularly in reporting key concepts, theories, policies and practices. This paper explores the extant theories and examines the policies that influence the reporting and translation of scientific literature in Indian languages. It discusses the practical challenges faced by translators. By addressing these issues, the paper aims to propose language and translation strategies to enhance the quality of translation in scientific communication.