Navigating embassy services for travel or consular needs can often be a complex process. To simplify this, the Indian Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia, has introduced 'Dewi', an AI-powered digital assistant ready to answer your questions.
Meet Dewi: A Digital Diplomat
Dewi is a new artificial
intelligence (AI) avatar launched by the Indian Embassy in Jakarta. The name 'Dewi' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Devi' and means 'goddess' in Indonesian, a name chosen to resonate culturally in both India and Indonesia. This virtual assistant was unveiled in October 2026, coinciding with the festive occasions of Navratri and Durga Puja. Dewi is designed to be the digital face of the embassy, providing a wide range of information to both Indian nationals and Indonesian citizens interested in India. It operates across the embassy's social media platforms, aiming to make official information more accessible and engaging.
What Can Dewi Do For You?
The primary goal of Dewi is to act as a one-stop source for reliable information, available around the clock. This addresses a common challenge for those needing assistance outside of standard office hours. Dewi is equipped to handle queries on a variety of subjects, including essential consular services for the approximately 15,000 NRIs and 130,000 Persons of Indian Origin in Indonesia. Key areas where Dewi can provide guidance include updates on passports, visas, and other consular matters. Beyond this, the AI assistant will also share information about Indian culture, travel and tourism opportunities, scholarships for studying in India, and details on business and investment.
The Technology Behind the Service
Dewi is more than just a standard chatbot; it is an AI-powered avatar. This means it has a digital persona and can present information in a more interactive, human-like manner. The initiative is part of a broader push by the Indian government to use emerging technologies to improve public service delivery and governance. The system is designed to communicate in both English and Bahasa Indonesia, ensuring it is accessible to a wide audience. This move toward AI-enabled digital diplomacy follows similar initiatives by other Indian missions, such as the 'Bharati' assistant in New York and 'Sarathi' in Munich, which also use AI to streamline consular support.
A Step Forward in Citizen Services
The launch of Dewi signifies a strategic shift in how diplomatic missions engage with the public. By moving beyond traditional text-based announcements and static web pages, the embassy aims to provide a more dynamic and user-friendly experience. According to India's Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, the initiative is intended to bring information about the embassy's activities and the India-Indonesia partnership closer to the people. This digital outreach is a key part of India's 'Act East' policy, which focuses on strengthening political, commercial, and cultural ties with the region. The goal is to make staying informed simpler and more seamless for everyone, from professionals and students to tourists.
