New Delhi, Dec 25, 2025: The Indian Army has updated its social media guidelines, permitting personnel to sign up on Instagram, but only as “passive observers,” sources said on Thursday. Under the new rules, Army members can view posts but are prohibited from posting content, commenting, liking, or sharing, ensuring no user-generated content is created.

The move aims to increase awareness among personnel in the “digital age of information” while safeguarding sensitive military data from potential leaks. Previously, Army personnel could use X (formerly Twitter) only in a similar passive capacity.

A defence official explained, “The revised guidelines essentially mean that Army personnel can now sign up on Instagram, but they cannot post content or comments. Even liking a post is considered user-generated content and is not allowed.”

The change reflects the Army’s recognition that access to information is crucial in modern times, allowing personnel to stay updated on developments both within India and globally, without compromising operational security.

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, in a November session during the Chanakya Defence Dialogue, stressed the importance of smartphones for staying informed and connected. He highlighted that today’s generation of soldiers is “socially conscious, digitally fluent and globally connected,” but cautioned against “reacting impulsively,” urging thoughtful and responsible digital engagement.

This guideline revision is part of a broader effort to balance operational security with digital literacy for the Army’s personnel in an increasingly connected world.