In recent years, use of social media and digital mobilisation by civil society has emerged as a powerful form of pressure politics. Examine its impact on policymaking and democratic accountability. (Answer in 150 words)

Pressure Groups refer to informal associations who work to influence policy making. Formed in line with Article 19(1)c Various Tools Used: - Lobbying - Public propaganda - Petitions - Interest Articulation # DIGITAL MOBILIZATION BY CIVIL SOCIETY 1) Greater use of social media i Awareness programs eg. through YouTube videos. ii Whatsapp chat groups. discussions iii Greater Reach base widened to rural areas for

# IMPACT OF THIS MOBILIZATION :- (1) on Policymaking i Citizen-centric Governance eg. Farm Protests — utilized digital media — led to repeal of 3 farm laws. ii Environmentalism upheld eg. Recent uproar on Social media over — felling of Kanicha-guachipowli forest in Telangana — led to SC attention. (2) on democratic Accountability i #Me Too movement led to greater safeguards for women. ii Transparency upheld eg. SC recent decision — to publish asset details of judges on website. Thus, Digital India's potential can be leveraged by civil society for greater Reforms.