Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi once said, “The future belongs to social media. It is egalitarian and inclusive. Social media is not about any country, any language, any colour, any community but it is about human values and that is the underlying link binding humanity.” source
Social media is transforming the way young people engage with governance and public initiatives, making them active participants in India’s digital journey. Beyond being a platform for communication, it has become a tool for learning about government schemes, accessing e-governance services, and understanding policies that impact their communities.
Access to Knowledge, Anytime, Anywhere
By providing real-time information and enabling interaction with policymakers, social media is helping build an informed and responsible generation that can contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Moreover, digital communities allow young people to interact with mentors, educators, and professionals across the country, creating avenues for continuous learning and exposure that transcend geographical boundaries.
This democratization of information is a key aspect of India’s ongoing digital transformation, enabling the youth to leverage technology for personal growth and skill development.
Amplifying Youth Voices and Ideas
Beyond learning, social media provides a platform for expression, enabling young people to share their opinions, ideas, and innovations with a wider audience. From campaigns on climate action, education, and social issues to showcasing technological innovations and entrepreneurial ventures, the youth are using social media to make their voices heard and drive change.
Startups and student-led initiatives gain visibility, build networks, and attract support through online engagement. Many young innovators are leveraging social media to collaborate with peers, seek mentorship, and access resources that were previously limited to select circles. By empowering the youth to express themselves freely and engage with global conversations, social media is creating a generation of changemakers who can actively participate in India’s growth story.
Connecting Citizens and Governance
Social media is also transforming the relationship between citizens and governance. Government campaigns and digital initiatives now reach young people directly through platforms they use every day. Initiatives like DigiLocker, UMANG, and e-governance programs are promoted online, making it easier for youth to understand, access, and participate in schemes that impact their communities.
This direct engagement not only encourages greater participation but also fosters a sense of responsibility and inclusion among young citizens. By bridging the gap between policymakers and the public, social media is playing a vital role in shaping a more transparent, responsive, and participatory governance system.
Fascinating Use Cases
Here are some real and practical examples of how social media is empowering citizens, including youth, and strengthening governance in India:
* The Ask Our Experts programme is a live, interactive initiative, organised by the National e-Governance Division, that connects youth directly with experts from Digital India platforms. It empowers young citizens by giving them a space to ask questions, clear doubts, and understand how digital services can support their education, careers, and entrepreneurship. Through real-time conversations, success stories, and practical guidance, it builds digital awareness and confidence among youth. The programme encourages active participation, making technology more accessible and relatable. By turning complex schemes into simple, actionable knowledge, Ask Our Experts inspires youth to become informed users and contributors to India’s digital growth. Watch all episodes
* Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi occasionally writes articles on LinkedIn to directly engage professionals, youth, and entrepreneurs. Through these posts, he shares government initiatives, insights on economic growth, and digital transformation, aiming to inspire action, foster dialogue, and encourage participation in nation-building among a digitally connected audience. Check them here
* The Government of India actively uses social media as a fast, transparent tool for grievance redressal. Platforms like X and Facebook allow citizens to raise concerns in real time, enabling quick responses from ministries and departments. Many government handles monitor posts and tags to address issues efficiently. For example, Indian Railways responds swiftly to passenger complaints on X, often resolving matters within hours. This approach not only enhances accountability but also builds citizen trust. Social media thus bridges the gap between people and government, making grievance redressal more accessible and responsive. Visit this site to follow their social media handles.
* MyGov India leverages social media to empower citizens by providing a direct, interactive platform for engagement with governance. Through various social media platforms, it shares updates on government initiatives, invites feedback, and crowdsources ideas from the public. Citizens, especially youth, can participate in polls, contests, and campaigns, contribute suggestions for policy-making, and stay informed about national programs. By making government information accessible and encouraging active participation, MyGov fosters transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Visit this site to follow their social media handles.
* The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare uses social media to keep citizens informed and empowered with timely health updates. Through platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram, it shares information on vaccination drives, disease prevention, nutrition, and wellness programs. Citizens can access verified guidance, participate in health campaigns, and clarify doubts. By leveraging social media, the ministry promotes awareness, encourages healthy practices, and strengthens public trust in health governance. Visit this site to follow their social media handles.
In the era of digital transformation, social media is more than a communication tool. It is empowering India’s youth to learn, express, connect, and lead – building a confident and capable generation ready to shape a brighter future.
(This article has been written by Shipra Abraham, Awareness and Communications Division, National e-Governance Division. For any comments or feedback, please write to shipra.abraham@digitalindia.gov.in and negdcb@digitalindia.gov.in)
