Soon, a government media cell will track and counter negative content
Using a software, the cell will classify and analyse online content on the basis of its factual correctness, before generating 'instant counters' to plug resentment.
The Centre has decided to set up a special media cell to track and counter online content that it feels portrays the government and its policies in negative light. The Indian Express reported that the National Security Council Secretariat has proposed the creation of a National Media Analytics Centre to monitor and analyse blogs, web portals of TV channels and newspapers, and social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
Using a software, the NMAC will comb posts and comments, and classify them into three categories – positive, negative and neutral. In case of negative content, the cell will find out its factual correctness, before generating “instant counters” to plug resentment. The software will also help the cell with the writer's background, website preferences and areas of interest to weigh the content and its source. The software is designed by Ponnurangam Kumaraguru, an assistant Professor at Indraprastha Institute of Information in Delhi.
The NMAC proposal suggests setting up a committee represented by the ministries of Home Affairs, Information and Broadcasting, and External Affairs ministries for analysis, coordination, information dissemination and feedback on public perception and national security.