Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly advised Union ministers to become more active on Instagram and create engaging reels to better connect with India’s youth. According to sources, the suggestion was made during a Cabinet meeting, where the Prime Minister stressed that social media has become one of the most effective platforms for reaching younger audiences.
The advice comes as the government seeks to expand its digital communication strategy and engage directly with citizens through platforms widely used by Gen Z and young millennials.
“Youths Are on Instagram”
During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi reportedly asked ministers how many of them actively use Instagram. Emphasising the platform’s popularity among young Indians, he said that ministers should use it not only to share information about government initiatives but also to interact directly with citizens through engaging content.
According to sources, the Prime Minister encouraged ministers to “make reels” and create interactive content that explains government schemes in a simple and relatable manner.
Focus on Public Outreach
The Prime Minister is said to have underlined that effective communication is an essential part of governance. Beyond announcing policies, ministers should ensure that people—especially first-time voters and young citizens—understand how government programmes affect their daily lives.
Officials indicated that social media platforms provide an opportunity for ministers to answer questions, address concerns, and improve public awareness of various welfare and development initiatives.
Inspired by Modi’s Own Digital Strategy
The reported advice follows the strong online response to a recent selfie-style Instagram video posted by Prime Minister Modi, in which he addressed concerns over examination reforms. The video attracted millions of views and significant engagement, reinforcing the growing importance of short-form video content in public communication.
Government sources believe that similar digital engagement by Union ministers could help improve awareness of policy decisions and strengthen communication with younger audiences.
Instagram Emerging as a Key Communication Platform
Instagram has become one of India’s fastest-growing social media platforms, particularly among people aged between 18 and 35. Political leaders, government departments, and public institutions are increasingly using reels, short videos, and interactive posts to explain policies, announce initiatives, and respond to public queries.
The Prime Minister’s reported remarks reflect a broader shift toward digital-first communication, where visual storytelling and short-form content play an increasingly important role in reaching citizens.
Digital Governance in the Social Media Era
If implemented widely, the initiative could encourage ministers to adopt more engaging communication methods while making government information more accessible to younger audiences. By combining policy updates with interactive digital content, the government aims to strengthen public outreach and increase awareness of its programmes across social media platforms.
The reported guidance also highlights the growing role of Instagram and short-form videos in modern governance, where direct communication with citizens is becoming an important part of public engagement.
