India launches AI avatar 'Devi' in Indonesia: Business services to become easier—how will it assist at the embassy?
The Indian Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia, has introduced an AI-based digital avatar named 'Devi' to disseminate information about India. This avatar will share updates regarding Indian culture, tourism, scholarships, business, investment opportunities, and consular services. The initiative aims to reach a broader online audience with information concerning the India-Indonesia partnership through digital channels.
India’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, announced this initiative. The Indian Embassy introduced the new AI avatar on the social media platform X, inviting the public to "meet Devi, the new AI face of the Indian Embassy in Jakarta."
What will the AI avatar 'Devi' do?
According to the Indian Embassy, 'Devi' will provide information on Indian culture, tourism, scholarships, trade, investment opportunities, and consular services. It will also highlight activities and stories related to the partnership between India and Indonesia. The Embassy has encouraged the public to follow its social media accounts and engage with 'Devi' to stay updated on India-Indonesia relations.
Launched during Navratri and Durga Puja
Referring to the initiative during the auspicious occasion of Navratri and Durga Puja, Indian Ambassador Sandeep Chakravorty wrote on X that their AI avatar, 'Devi', is ready to guide her followers.
Through this initiative, the Embassy intends to reach a wider audience with information about its activities and the cooperation between the two nations via digital platforms. However, it remains unclear whether 'Devi' will be able to respond to user queries in real-time, or if her primary function will be to share information and updates.
Will this provide a digital boost to India-Indonesia relations?
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, since 2014—under India's 'Act East' policy—bilateral relations between India and Indonesia have expanded across the political, security, defense, trade, and cultural spheres. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited India during the BRICS summit (held on September 12–13). In this context, a digital initiative like 'Devi' could serve as a new avenue for fostering cooperation, cultural engagement, and the exchange of business-related information between the two nations.
Need for regulations on AI usage: Jaishankar
While AI is being used positively within embassies, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has advised global caution regarding the unchecked development and application of artificial intelligence.
In a conversation with John Micklethwait, Editor-in-Chief of the Bloomberg New Economy Forum, Jaishankar noted that AI is difficult to compare with other technologies—even nuclear technology—due to its pervasive reach and the vast number of people it affects.
Concerns regarding AI’s impact on democratic processes
Furthermore, Jaishankar highlighted the potential impact of AI on democratic societies. He expressed specific concern regarding the credibility of politics and democratic processes. He believes it is essential for society to examine how AI will influence politics and political processes, given that these processes play a critical role in maintaining the credibility of a democracy.
The growing role of AI in digital diplomacy
The introduction of the AI avatar 'Devi' demonstrates that digital technology is now being integrated into governmental and diplomatic communication. Such digital tools can facilitate the dissemination of information related to culture, tourism, education, and business to the public.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we modified it for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
