In the vibrant suburban neighborhood of Kharadi in Pune, Maharashtra, India, Baby Rajaram Bokale, a hardworking resident, concludes her day’s tasks with a unique responsibility. Amidst the serene ambiance of her home, adorned with a shrine to Lord Krishna and memories of her late husband, Bokale settles down on her bed with her smartphone in hand. With a clear and melodious voice, she narrates stories in Marathi, her native language, for an innovative initiative aimed at training AI models.
This initiative, led by a social impact organization named Karya, is not only about enriching AI data but also about empowering individuals like Bokale. The stories she reads serve a dual purpose – educating herself on personal finance while contributing to the advancement of AI technology. Through engaging narratives, she learns about banking, savings, and safeguarding against financial scams.
Speaking about her involvement, Bokale expresses her delight in learning new skills and contributing to her community. She shares her pride in being part of a project that not only preserves her language but also makes technological tools accessible in Marathi.
Karya, founded on principles of social impact, aims to address poverty while creating high-quality datasets for AI training. Originating as a Microsoft Research project in Bengaluru in 2017, it has evolved into an independent organization with a mission to uplift rural Indians by providing education and income opportunities.
Operating on a robust tech infrastructure powered by Microsoft Azure, Karya recruits individuals like Bokale, compensating them above the minimum wage in India. The organization prioritizes education alongside work, ensuring that participants gain valuable knowledge while contributing to AI data creation. Furthermore, workers receive royalties if the data they generate is resold, thereby sharing in the success of the venture.
Manu Chopra, CEO of Karya and one of its founders, envisions leveraging AI technology to uplift rural India economically. He emphasizes the transformative potential of technology in amplifying the aspirations of individuals striving to improve their lives. With over 30,000 workers across various regions in India, Karya is making significant strides in bridging the digital divide.
Bokale’s story epitomizes the impact of Karya’s approach, where work is intertwined with learning and empowerment. Alongside earning a substantial income, she and fellow participants are equipped with financial literacy and digital skills, enabling them to make informed decisions and pursue new opportunities. The initiative not only fosters economic growth but also instills a sense of pride and confidence in individuals like Bokale, who now see their smartphones as gateways to a brighter future.