A Divine Name for a Digital Diplomat
The choice of the name 'Dewi' is a masterstroke of cultural diplomacy. In Indonesian, 'Dewi' means goddess, a word that originates from the Sanskrit 'Devi'. This shared linguistic and cultural heritage between India and Indonesia makes the name instantly
relatable and resonant. The launch was strategically timed to coincide with the auspicious start of the Navaratri and Durga Puja festivals, further cementing its connection to Indian traditions. Indian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, introduced Dewi as a guide for her followers, launched on a festive occasion to strengthen the India-Indonesia partnership.
What Can Dewi Do for You?
Dewi is designed to be a one-stop virtual guide for a wide range of queries. Her role is to make information about India more accessible, engaging, and relevant to people in Indonesia. Operating across the embassy's social media platforms, she will provide updates on Indian culture and festivals, travel and tourism opportunities, and information on scholarships for studying in India. Beyond culture and education, Dewi will also serve as a resource for business and investment prospects, and will share important consular updates, such as visa information and other services. This initiative is aimed not only at the local Indonesian population but also at the significant Indian diaspora, which includes about 130,000 Persons of Indian Origin and 15,000 Non-Resident Indians.
Part of a Broader 'Digital India' Vision
The Dewi project is more than just a novel communication tool; it is a direct implementation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for using technology to improve public service delivery. The initiative is driven by the M.A.N.A.V. (Machine, Application, and Vision) framework, which encourages the adoption of emerging technologies like AI to enhance governance. By moving beyond conventional communication methods, the embassy aims to create a more dynamic and interactive outreach program. This aligns with India's broader foreign policy goal of using its prowess in digital public infrastructure to strengthen international relationships and project soft power.
The Future of AI in Diplomacy
While Dewi is a friendly face for public outreach, her launch points to a larger global trend of 'techno-diplomacy', where countries use technological innovation as a foreign policy tool. As nations compete and collaborate in the AI sphere, initiatives like Dewi serve as practical examples of how AI can be used for public good. India has been actively promoting its 'AI for All' vision on global stages like the G20, advocating for a human-centric approach to technological development. The use of AI in diplomacy can enhance communication, analyze complex global issues, and make consular services more efficient. This project by the Jakarta embassy could become a template for other Indian missions worldwide, showcasing an innovative model for engaging with both foreign audiences and the Indian diaspora.
