If you’re pursuing a Post Graduate Diploma in Translation (PGDT) from IGNOU, you’ll need to complete a translation project (MTTP-006) as a part of your coursework. To begin with, this involves choosing a text which has not been translated earlier. Then, preparing a proposal, and getting approval before proceeding to make the final project.
Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process.
1. Choosing the Medium of Translation
First of all, decide whether you’ll translate from Hindi to English or vice versa. Then, Choose the one you’re more comfortable with and can maintain accuracy in. Remember that you will have to write Anuwad Tippani, strictly in the target language. For instance, if you are translating from english to hindi, your anuwad tippani will be in Hindi.
Kindly note that you can submit the Proposal in both the languages (English and Hindi) irrespective of your medium of translation.
2. Selecting the Book or Text
Pick a book, story, article, or any literary piece that hasn’t been translated before.
Make sure: –
- It fits the word count requirement (around 8,000-10,000 words).
- It belongs to a category approved by your university (fiction, history, science, culture, etc.) Check the list provided below.
- The content is suitable for academic translation.
- To avoid rejection, don’t select a book that has already been translated. You may need to check online or consult someone regarding this.
Select the nature of the text you intend to translate from the list below:
3. Making the Proposal
You may use the following headings for your proposal. I will attach an example in the form of an image herewith with all the headings for your reference.
A. The Title of the Proposed Text
Mention the title of the text you plan to translate. Ensure that it is the same title as in the original work. Also mention the source and target language of translation.
B. Nature of the Proposed Text :
Describe the type of text (e.g., literary, technical, academic, historical, philosophical, etc.)with the help of the list provided above in 2.
C. Brief Introduction of the Proposed Text
Provide a short overview of the text, its author, historical or cultural context, and its importance in literature or academia. You may also mention the reason for selecting that particular work for translation.
D. Translation Methodology
Explain the approach you will take for translation. Mention whether it will be literal, interpretative, or adaptive. Highlight any specific techniques, challenges, or linguistic nuances you will address.
E. Tools Used During Translation
List any resources, dictionaries, software, or AI tools that will aid the translation process. If applicable, mention collaborations with experts or references you will use for accuracy.
F. Concept of the Project
Summarize the overall aim of your translation project. Explain how it will contribute to the field of translation studies and why it is relevant for readers in the target language.
Neatly type or write the proposal on a A4 paper. Attach a signed certificate (Annexure – क ) stating you will complete the project independently. (Refer to the sample uploaded below for the exact format of the proposal)
4. Submission Sequence
You need to compile the pages in the following sequence :
5. Sending the Proposal by Post
Once your proposal is ready, send it to:
Program Coordinator,
PGDT Program,
School of Translation Studies and Training,
Block 15-C, Indira Gandhi National Open University
Maidan Garhi,New Delhi-110068.Use registered post only to ensure safe delivery. One may use speed post but at your own risk. Keep a copy of your proposal for future reference.
Additionally, mention “PGDT MTTP-006” AND TRANSLATION PERFORMA/PROPOSAL on the top of the envelope.
6. Waiting for Approval
IGNOU will review your proposal before approval. This can take a few weeks to months. Be patient! If your proposal doesn’t get accepted, you will be informed regarding the same. The sole reason for rejection is that the work you chose must have been translated. In this case, select a new work/book which has not been translated yet and send a fresh proposal.
7. Keep Checking Emails
Your approval or feedback will be sent via email. If corrections are suggested, revise and resubmit promptly.
8. Getting Approval and Moving Forward
Once your proposal is approved, start translating your text methodically. Also, write an explanatory note also know as Anuwad Tippani (1,500 words) on your translation experience. Then, Proofread carefully before submission so that there are less errors.
For step wise guide regarding the submission of project, kindly comment below.
Finally, submit your completed translation project but strictly as per IGNOU’s guidelines.
Good luck!
PRO TIP : Always submit a typed proposal as it will save your time and you can always edit it if anything goes wrong. Also you can copy paste the proposal provided in the sample and submit it just by changing the book and chapter name 😜.