Meet 'Dewi', Your New Digital Guide
The Indian Embassy in Jakarta has unveiled 'Dewi', an artificial intelligence-powered avatar designed to serve as a new digital face for the mission. The name 'Dewi' is culturally significant, deriving from the Sanskrit word 'Devi' (goddess) and is also
a common name in Indonesia, symbolizing the shared cultural heritage between the two nations. Launched to coincide with the auspicious occasions of Navratri and Durga Puja, Dewi represents a modern approach to public outreach. The initiative aims to make information about India more engaging and readily available to a wide audience, including the approximately 130,000 Persons of Indian Origin and 15,000 Non-Resident Indians in Indonesia.
What Information Can Dewi Provide?
Dewi is programmed to be a comprehensive source of information across several key areas. The AI avatar will deliver updates on consular services, which includes guidance on passports, visas, and other assistance for Indian citizens abroad. Beyond consular matters, Dewi will also share information on travel and tourism to India, scholarship opportunities for students, and details on business and investment prospects. This broad scope is intended to serve not only the Indian diaspora but also Indonesians who are interested in visiting, studying, or doing business with India. The avatar will communicate in both English and Bahasa Indonesia, enhancing its accessibility.
The Future of Digital Diplomacy
The launch of Dewi is part of a larger trend of Indian diplomatic missions embracing technology to improve service delivery. This aligns with the Indian government's emphasis on using emerging technologies to enhance governance and public services. Other Indian missions have also deployed AI-powered tools. For instance, the Consulate General of India in Munich launched an AI avatar named 'Sarathi' to handle queries on consular matters, while chatbots like 'Bharati' and 'Pramit' are in use in New York, Dubai, and Hungary. These digital assistants help manage routine inquiries 24/7, freeing up consular staff to focus on more complex and urgent cases that require human intervention and empathy.
Why This Matters for Indians Abroad and at Home
For the Indian community in Indonesia and for those planning to travel there, this initiative offers a significant practical benefit: instant access to reliable information. Instead of navigating websites or waiting for email responses, users can get quick updates on essential services. This move toward AI-driven communication reflects a broader strategy to make consular support more efficient and citizen-centric. By automating routine information sharing, embassies can better allocate resources to handle emergencies and complex individual cases. This model of digital engagement not only improves service for the diaspora but also strengthens India's soft power by showcasing its technological capabilities and commitment to innovative governance.
