Karnataka is about to unleash a powerful AI-based solution to track social media, in an attempt to crack down on fake news, misinformation, and other digital plagues that have come to infect social media across the world. This project has now officially received the green light from the Karnataka Cabinet, as they have approved the Social Media Analytics Solution (SMAS) project with a budget of ₹67.20 crore.
According to officials, this system will scan social media, websites, and digital communication channels in real-time. The goal is to detect hate speech, misleading content, online abuse, and cyber threats before they escalate. Minister HK Patil confirmed that the government will now be scanning social media content through SMAS to identify harmful narratives and even track recruitment efforts by terror outfits online.
The move stems from concerns that the sheer volume of digital content has completely overwhelmed traditional monitoring methods. Patil also underscored that the system is required for maintaining public order and social harmony in this digital age. As it is designed for quick analysis on a massive scale, it enables a swift response towards any impending threat that might compromise safety.
The tendering process is to begin soon, and the technical details will be worked out by the Tender Approval Committee soon enough. When asked about legal issues regarding scanning posts made by people, Minister Patil was categorical that "absolutely no bar exists in scanning any content that has criminal intent and manipulation."
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