InfoSuraksha
Digitalization has brought about profound transformations in the world, much like globalization and urbanization. The impact of digitalization on our lives has been far-reaching, touching almost every aspect of modern existence. In the modern era, the internet has become an indispensable part of our daily lives, playing a pivotal role that cannot be ignored. As technology has advanced and digital tools have become accessible, the way we work, communicate, learn, and even socialize has undergone significant changes.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further emphasized the importance of the internet and digital tools in our lives. In India, especially among the youth, social media has become a common means to access information regarding current affairs, health-related, COVID-19, and what not. During COVID-19, online classes have become a necessary means of education, leading to an increased number of children gaining internet access for their studies. However, this increased internet usage has also exposed them to false information and misinformation through social media and online platforms.
During the pandemic, rumors, stigma, and conspiracy theories spread like wildfire, making it challenging for people to find reliable information. It also led to the erosion of trust in health institutions hindered the effective management of public health threats. Beyond the tangible consequences, misinformation can harm both physical and mental health, promote stigmatization, and lead people to disregard vital public health measures, causing panic and anxiety. It is crucial for us to safeguard ourselves and exercise caution in our online activities, the content we consume, and how we conduct ourselves on the internet.
About InfoSuraksha
VHAI in close collaboration with WHO Country India and ICMR is implementing project InfoSuraksha to promote social media literacy across India. The primary objective is to ensure that the students and teachers are better informed, engaged and safe online through their capacity strengthening on social media literacy and management of fake news leading to the reliable and respectful use of social media.
Major Activities
The Department of School & Mass Education, Government of Odisha, hosted the ‘SURAVI’ State-level children’s festival from November 14th to 16th, 2023, in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha. The event was inaugurated by Shri Naveen Patnaik, the Chief Minister of Odisha.
Team VHAI was invited to conduct educational sessions on Social Media Literacy, focusing on responsible usage of social media, combating misinformation, and ensuring internet safety, for students, teachers, parents, and government officials. VHAI sensitized over 600 students, 100 teachers, 150 parents, and 40 government officials from various parts of the state during the two-day event.
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We are organizing training programs for students and educators, which helps to equip them necessary knowledge to effectively analyze and evaluate information encountered on social media platforms.
Additionally, these programs also promote responsible use of social media, emphasizing the importance of reliable sources, fact-checking, and ensuring personal safety online.
We are collaborating and supporting various State Government to integrate the social media literacy as a part of the existing educational curriculum of the State.