Mumbai: The Maharashtra government is set to establish a media monitoring centre at an estimated cost of ₹10 crore to track news coverage across print, electronic, social, and digital platforms. The initiative aims to monitor and analyze media reports related to government schemes, policies, and overall state governance, The Indian Express reported.

Real-Time Monitoring and Action on Misinformation:

According to a Government Resolution (GR) issued on March 5, the centre will function as an independent unit, bringing all media monitoring activities under one roof. It will analyze both positive and negative coverage across newspapers, TV channels, websites, social media platforms, and news apps.

A key feature of the system is its real-time action mechanism, which will address misleading or negative news concerning the state government. The system will not only prepare analytical reports on media trends but also notify authorities about any false or damaging narratives.

AI-Powered Tracking of Fake News:

To counter misinformation effectively, the Maharashtra government will leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) for tracking fake or misleading news. Authorities believe such content can create public unrest and misinformation about state policies.

The media monitoring centre aligns with the government’s broader strategy to enhance public communication and ensure factual reporting of state affairs. The project underscores Maharashtra’s commitment to combating fake news and maintaining transparency in information dissemination.