Prime Minister Modi Encourages Ministers to Use Instagram for Youth Engagement

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on his Cabinet ministers to enhance their presence on Instagram in order to engage with the nation’s youth effectively. This directive was given during a recent Cabinet meeting, where PM Modi inquired how many ministers were actively using social media platforms such as Instagram. He pointed out that a substantial proportion of young people in the country are active on these platforms, thus stressing the importance of direct interaction between the government and the youth.

Sources indicate that PM Modi advised ministers that merely sharing updates about government initiatives was insufficient. He urged them to leverage Instagram for more engaging and interactive communication with younger demographics. The Prime Minister specifically recommended creating reels and other interactive content that would resonate with young audiences.

"Young audiences are on Instagram. This is a large section of citizens that all of us need to stay connected with," Modi reportedly said during the meeting.

The discussion coincided with the Cabinet's approval of several key legislative proposals, including a new Bill aimed at implementing stricter penalties for examination paper leaks. According to official sources, the Union Cabinet has cleared amendments to The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, which propose significantly harsher punishments for those involved in paper leak offences.

The proposed changes include a minimum prison term of five years for individuals involved in these activities, while organised criminal networks could face up to ten years in prison, along with a maximum fine of INR 1 crore. This legislation is expected to be presented in Parliament shortly. It aims to strengthen current laws targeting organised groups and institutions implicated in examination fraud, thereby safeguarding legitimate candidates.

This legislative effort follows a video message from PM Modi addressing concerns over the NEET paper leak, where he assured students that the government stands with them. The leak, described by Modi as a significant issue, has caused considerable distress among students and their families. He noted that measures have been taken over the past two and a half months, including arrests related to the case.

Adding to the urgency, students have been protesting, led by a group known as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protesting group is also seeking accountability for alleged irregularities in the NEET examination system, as well as compensation for families affected by the cancellations. Government sources have confirmed their continued support for Minister Pradhan, asserting that there are no considerations for his resignation at this time. Additionally, the Centre is developing a comprehensive reform strategy for the National Testing Agency to address ongoing concerns about examination integrity.