Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently joined the ranks of those utilizing WhatsApp Channels, an innovative feature on the globally popular messaging app, WhatsApp. This new tool allows the commencement of a one-way broadcast channel, facilitating simultaneous connection with a vast number of subscribers. The move comes as a strong indication that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is planning to leverage all available platforms to maintain a seamless line of communication with the public. This is especially relevant in the lead-up to the Lok Sabha elections scheduled to be held next year. The announcement coincided with the Parliament’s shift to a new building, marking a new era in Indian politics.

WhatsApp Channels function as a one-way broadcast medium. This format allows administrators to send text messages, photos, videos, stickers, and even polls. These channels are found in a separate ‘Updates’ tab on WhatsApp, distinct from personal and community chats, thereby offering a segregated space for such broad communications.

Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has highlighted three main features of WhatsApp Channels. These include the Enhanced Directory, Reactions, and Forwarding. The Enhanced Directory filters channels based on the user’s country, showcasing new, most active, and popular channels based on follower count. The Reactions feature allows users to react to posts using emojis, and view the total count of reactions, while keeping individual reactions private. The Forwarding feature facilitates users to forward updates to chats or groups with a backlink to the channel for additional information.

Modi’s decision to join WhatsApp Channels further strengthens his active social media presence. He has been particularly active on platforms like X (previously known as Twitter), and with this move, he ushers in an era of increased accessibility on WhatsApp Channels. To join PM Modi’s WhatsApp channel, users need to navigate to the ‘Updates’ tab in their WhatsApp application. After clicking on ‘Find Channel’ and searching for “Narendra Modi”, they can locate and follow the Prime Minister’s channel.