In a world where digital information is at our fingertips, discerning fact from fiction has never been more challenging. As India gears up for the 2024 General Elections, Social & Media Matters, a vanguard in digital rights advocacy, has released a pivotal survey report titled "Don't Be a Fool 3.0." This report, a cornerstone of the #KeepItReal initiative, offers an eye-opening perspective on the influence of misinformation among first-time voters in India.
The survey, encompassing responses from 636 participants across 28 states, paints a concerning picture of media literacy gaps and the profound impact of fake news on political perceptions and choices. A staggering 65.2% of respondents, voting for the first time, reported encountering fake news, predominantly through popular social media platforms like WhatsApp (29.8%), Instagram (17.8%), and Facebook (15.8%).
Amitabh Kumar, the Founder of Social & Media Matters, emphasizes the critical need for enhanced media literacy and responsible information sharing among young voters. "Our findings are a clarion call for collaborative efforts to cultivate a well-informed electorate, capable of discerning truth in the digital age," he states.
The report also sheds light on various sources of misinformation, including digital platforms and word-of-mouth, noting demographic variations in impact and awareness. Alarmingly, 37.1% of respondents admitted to being directly impacted by fake news or misinformation.
Pratishtha Arora, CEO of Social & Media Matters, underscores the study's critical importance in the context of the upcoming elections. "With digital misinformation potentially shaping the electoral discourse, understanding and addressing these challenges becomes paramount," she remarks.
As we stand on the cusp of another significant electoral event, the "Don't Be a Fool 3.0" report serves as a timely reminder of the challenges posed by misinformation. It's not just about staying informed but being critically aware of the information we consume and share. The #KeepItReal initiative is not just a campaign; it's a necessity in our continuous journey towards a more informed and responsible society.
We encourage our readers to engage in this conversation, spread awareness, and contribute to building a media-literate community. Share your thoughts and experiences with misinformation and how you think we can combat this growing concern.
READ THE FULL REPORT HERE: #KeepItReal Report - Unveiling the Impact of Misinformation on India's First-Time Voters
PRESS RELEASE ENGLISH: Unveiling the Impact of Misinformation on India's First-Time Voters
PRESS RELEASE HINDI: Unveiling the Impact of Misinformation on India's First-Time Voters