Meet Dewi: India’s New Digital Diplomat
The Indian Embassy in Jakarta has introduced an innovative new team member who works 24/7 and never needs a coffee break: an AI avatar named Dewi. Launched in October 2026, Dewi serves as a digital guide, tasked with making information about India more
accessible than ever. The name itself is a thoughtful cultural nod, as 'Dewi' translates to 'goddess' in Indonesian, connecting the initiative with the local culture from the very start. The launch was intentionally timed to coincide with the festivals of Navaratri and Durga Puja, which Indian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, noted was an 'auspicious occasion' to introduce Dewi to the world. This digital persona represents a significant step in using technology to enhance public outreach and strengthen the bond between India and Indonesia.
More Than Just an FAQ
Dewi is far more than a simple chatbot. The AI assistant is programmed to be a comprehensive resource for a wide range of topics. For those curious about India's rich heritage, Dewi provides cultural updates. For prospective travellers, it offers tourism information. Ambitious students can learn about scholarships, while entrepreneurs can explore business and investment opportunities. Furthermore, Dewi delivers essential consular updates, making it a vital tool for the approximately 130,000 Persons of Indian Origin and 15,000 Non-Resident Indians living in Indonesia. The goal is to bring stories and information about the India-Indonesia partnership closer to everyone, from the Indian diaspora to Indonesians interested in India.
The Strategy of Digital Diplomacy
The creation of Dewi is a prime example of 'digital diplomacy', a growing trend where governments use technology to engage with global audiences. In an increasingly connected world, embassies can no longer rely solely on traditional methods. AI-driven tools like Dewi allow for instant, accessible, and wide-reaching communication. By creating a relatable character, the embassy is fostering a more personal connection and encouraging engagement on its social media platforms, where users can interact with the avatar. This approach aims to make government services more user-friendly and effective, though some online observers have noted that its success will depend on the quality of the AI engine supporting it. India has been actively promoting human-centric and inclusive AI governance on the global stage, and initiatives like Dewi put that philosophy into practice.
Bridging Nations Through Code
Ultimately, Dewi is about building bridges. The AI character is designed to facilitate a deeper understanding and appreciation between the people of India and Indonesia. By offering information in both English and Bahasa Indonesia, the avatar removes language barriers and makes its resources truly accessible. This initiative aligns with India's broader 'Act East' policy, which has seen bilateral relations in political, commercial, and cultural fields develop rapidly. As AI technology continues to evolve, its role in cultural diplomacy is set to expand. Projects like Dewi demonstrate how technology can be harnessed not just for economic or security purposes, but as a powerful tool for strengthening soft power and fostering goodwill between nations. It is a forward-thinking approach that could serve as a model for diplomatic missions worldwide.
