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)

Civil society has been harnessing new age technologies to catalyse pressure politics. Digital mobilisation - Centre for Science & Environment's critique of GoI's climate policy. Social media - expand its reach, connect with youth - Naz foundation - # pride month for LGBTQ+ rights. Impact on policy making: 1) Grassroot input for policy making - ASEB Survey's findings on social media - input to education policies by 'partner' 2) Citizen engagement in policy planning - SEWP using social media inputs from rural women to collaborate with GoI. 3) Public mobilisation - exerts pressure on policy makers to shape inclusive policies.

Impact on democratic accountability: 1) Public oversight - facilitated by NGOs - Eg Aadhne campaign against mining in Jharkhand. 2) Enforcing social audits - Eg Safai Karamchari Sangathan & audit of NAMASTE scheme - exposed irregularities. 3) Scrutinising actions of GoI - NGOs exposed plight to member woman amid ethnic war 2023. In a digital world, technology has democratized activism & led to greater accountability. Through transparent funding and inclusive delivery, corporates are emerging as stewards of welfare.