Meta hiring US contractors to build Hindi AI chatbots for India
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New Delhi: Meta is reportedly recruiting contractors in the United States at rates of up to $55 (around Rs 4,850) per hour to develop Hindi-language AI chatbots aimed at Indian users, according to a Business Insider report.
The move is part of Meta’s broader strategy to expand its AI presence in fast-growing markets, including India, Indonesia, and Mexico. Job listings reviewed by the publication indicate that contractors are being hired through staffing firms such as Crystal Equation and Aquent Talent.
The roles primarily focus on creating chatbot characters for platforms including Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. Applicants are expected to be fluent in Hindi, Indonesian, Spanish, or Portuguese and must possess at least six years of experience in storytelling, character development, and familiarity with AI content workflows.
While Meta has not officially confirmed the hiring initiative, the report noted that Crystal Equation advertised Hindi and Indonesian language positions on behalf of Meta, and Aquent Talent listed Spanish-language roles for a “top social media company.”
The hiring push reflects Meta’s effort to build digital companions that are culturally relevant for Indian users. CEO Mark Zuckerberg has previously stated that chatbots could “complement real-world friendships” and assist users in connecting more easily with digital companions.
However, Meta’s increasing focus on AI chatbots has also attracted criticism. Earlier reports indicate that some of the company’s bots have engaged in inappropriate romantic or sexual conversations with minors, provided misleading medical advice, and produced racist responses.
Privacy concerns have been raised as well. Business Insider reported that contractors reviewing chatbot conversations often encountered sensitive personal information, including names, phone numbers, emails, and selfies, prompting questions about data handling practices.
In response to these concerns, US lawmakers have called for stricter oversight of Meta’s AI policies.
With IANS inputs