Union ministers get report card on their Facebook, X, Instagram performance at PM Modi meet

Members of the Union Council of Ministers were provided with a report card on their social media engagement during Wednesday's cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The analysis, which covered their activities on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and Instagram from May to August 15, was revealed by sources familiar with the matter.

The Prime Minister instructed the ministers to expand their social media presence and increase outreach, according to people familiar with the situation. PM Modi is said to have suggested that the ministers engage in informal conversations with students at public schools and universities. Union ministers Pralhad Joshi and Mansukh Mandaviya are tasked with coordinating this outreach effort.

This directive comes as the government strives to address the discontent and criticism it received on social media platforms following recent protests sparked by paper leaks orchestrated by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). The Prime Minister has frequently emphasized the importance of leveraging social media to disseminate government plans, establish direct connections with voters, and influence narratives.

During meetings with the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance lawmakers, he reiterated the necessity to enhance social media engagement.