What is Project Dewi?
Project Dewi is not a traditional program but rather a high-tech public outreach initiative by the Indian Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia. The centerpiece of the project is 'Dewi', an Artificial Intelligence (AI) avatar designed to serve as the new digital
face of the embassy. The name 'Dewi' was chosen for its cultural significance, meaning 'goddess' in Indonesian and deriving from the Sanskrit word 'Devi', symbolizing the shared heritage between the two nations. Launched during the auspicious occasion of Navaratri and Durga Puja, Dewi's purpose is to disseminate information and engage with audiences on social media platforms, making the embassy's resources more accessible.
Scholarships and Educational Pathways
One of Dewi's key roles is to provide clear and timely information about educational opportunities in India. The AI avatar will guide aspiring students on available scholarships for studying in India. While Dewi is the information conduit, the scholarships themselves are part of broader programs administered by the Indian government, such as those offered by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). These scholarships cover a vast range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, from engineering and technology to liberal arts and management. Dewi will help prospective applicants in Indonesia navigate these opportunities, making it easier to understand eligibility and application processes for esteemed programs like the Atal Bihari Vajpayee General Scholarship Scheme and others.
A Boost for Business and Investment
Beyond academia, Project Dewi is designed to foster economic ties by highlighting business and investment opportunities. The AI avatar will serve as a first point of information for Indonesian entrepreneurs and investors interested in the Indian market, and vice-versa. This includes sharing updates on key sectors for cooperation, trade policies, and initiatives aimed at strengthening the India-Indonesia partnership. By providing accessible information on these matters, the embassy aims to stimulate commercial engagement and support the approximately 15,000 Non-Resident Indians and 130,000 Persons of Indian Origin in Indonesia, many of whom are professionals and business owners.
How Does It Work?
Dewi operates as a virtual guide across the Indian Embassy in Jakarta's social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter). The avatar communicates updates and provides information through posts and other digital content. The goal is to move beyond conventional methods of communication and create a more engaging, relevant, and accessible channel for the public. This initiative is part of a broader push to adopt emerging technologies to improve public service delivery. For users, this means they can follow the embassy's official accounts to receive direct updates from Dewi on everything from consular services and travel to cultural events and the opportunities for study and business.
Strengthening India-Indonesia Ties
At its core, Project Dewi is a tool for digital diplomacy aimed at strengthening the bond between India and Indonesia. By creating a culturally resonant and technologically advanced communication channel, the embassy aims to foster a deeper connection with the people of Indonesia and the Indian diaspora living there. Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty hailed the initiative as a vital step in enhancing the partnership between the two nations. The project not only makes practical information more accessible but also shares stories and updates from across the India-Indonesia partnership, promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
