Army personnel can now sign up on Instagram, but as ‘passive observers’: Sources
It was stated that the move aims to increase the awareness level of Army personnel in the “digital information age” and protect them against any potential or unintentional leak of sensitive information.
A source in the defense establishment said that the revision in the guidelines was introduced a few days ago and is applicable to all ranks in the Indian Army.
“The revised rules essentially mean that Army personnel can now sign up for Instagram, but only if they can use it as passive observers. They can see posts but cannot post content or comments on the platform,” the source said.
The source added that essentially “user-generated content” is not allowed, so even “liking” a post would fall into this category.
Previously, Army personnel could sign up for and use X, but not Instagram.
“Restrictions already apply to X, so Army personnel using X can only view posts but cannot share, reshare or comment on posts,” another source said. “The reason behind this change in rules is mainly because the information age has changed and the Army cannot keep itself away from this world of information,” the source said.
Sources said that through social media, Army personnel can see, observe, obtain information and keep abreast of what is happening inside and outside the country.
“However, it is necessary to ensure that no sensitive information is accidentally leaked to social media platforms and hence they have to use them as passive observers,” they said.
In an interactive session held here in November as part of the Chanakya Defense Dialogue, Army Commander General Upendra Dwivedi had emphasized the necessity of having a smartphone.
However, he also underlined the difference between “reacting impulsively” and “responding thoughtfully.”
General Dwivedi said that a soldier can communicate with his family or read e-books online, so smartphone is a necessity today. When asked how the Army looks at Generation Z, he had said that they are ready to play an important role in making Viksit Bharat.
He said today’s generation is “socially conscious, digitally fluent and globally connected.”
