Digital Transformation of News Consumption
Science & Technology
- PYQs8
- Articles1
Background
This trend impacts public discourse, democratic processes, media regulation, digital literacy, and the spread of information. It's crucial for understanding societal changes, governance challenges, and the evolving role of technology in public life, relevant for GS1 (Society), GS2 (Governance, Media), and GS3 (Technology).
The digital revolution has profoundly reshaped how information is accessed and consumed, leading to a significant shift from traditional media to online platforms, social media, and emerging technologies like AI for news dissemination. This transformation impacts public opinion, media credibility, and the spread of information.
Facts & tables
- Shift to Digital Platforms
- Social media and video networks (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube) have surpassed traditional news outlets as primary news sources globally.
- Rise of AI in News Access
- There is a rise in the use of AI chatbots for news access, particularly among younger audiences (below 35 years).
- Increased Video Consumption
- Online news video consumption has markedly risen, predominantly on third-party platforms rather than news websites/apps.
- Role of Content Creators
- Content creators complement traditional media, offering entertainment and relatability, though rated lower on trust and impartiality.
| Type | Reference |
|---|---|
| Conceptual area | Digital Governance |
| Conceptual area | Media & Communication |
Prelims angle
Prelims angle: Statement-based questions
Prelims angle: Factual recall
- Global shift from traditional news to social media/video platforms.
- Increased use of AI chatbots for news, especially by youth.
- Online news video consumption rising on third-party platforms.
- Content creators complement traditional media, offering relatability.
- Impacts public discourse, media regulation, and digital literacy.
| Year | Framing tags |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Statement-based questions, Factual recall |
| 2026 | Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall |
| 2026 | Multi-statement analysis, Conceptual understanding |
| 2026 | Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall |
| 2022 | Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall |
| 2022 | Multi-statement analysis, Conceptual understanding |
| 2017 | Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall |
| 2017 | Statement-based questions, Policy measures |
Timeline
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Digital Governance
Conceptual area
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Media & Communication
Conceptual area
-
Prelims 2017
Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall
-
Prelims 2017
Statement-based questions, Policy measures
-
Prelims 2022
Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall
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Prelims 2022
Multi-statement analysis, Conceptual understanding
-
Prelims 2026
Statement-based questions, Factual recall
-
Prelims 2026
Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall
-
Prelims 2026
Multi-statement analysis, Conceptual understanding
-
Prelims 2026
Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall
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Social media, video platforms surpass traditional outlets as leading news sources: report
The shift from traditional news sources to digital platforms, social media, AI, and content creators for news consumption, driven by changing audience habits and technological advancements.
See also
Past papers
2017–2026 · 8 questions
In the news
Social media, video platforms surpass traditional outlets as leading news sources: report
The shift from traditional news sources to digital platforms, social media, AI, and content creators for news consumption, driven by changing audience habits and technological advancements.
Try these PYQs
Consider the following statements with respect to the AI Impact Summit, 2026 held in New Delhi :
1. The Summit's intellectual framework was based on three foundational Sutras : People, Planning, and Progress.
2. The Preamble of the Summit stresses Democratising AI Resources, which acknowledges the Charter for Democratic Diffusion of AI as a binding framework to support locally relevant innovation and strengthen resilient AI ecosystems while respecting national laws.
3. The New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact was structured around seven Chakras (Pillars), which included Access for Social Empowerment, AI for Science, and Secure and Trusted AI.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
Statement 1 is Incorrect: The Summit's intellectual framework and core philosophy were anchored in three foundational principles (Sutras): People, Planet, and Progress, not People, Planning, and Progress. Statement 2 is Incorrect: The New Delhi Declaration introduced the Charter for Democratic Diffusion of AI to promote affordable access to foundational AI resources, support local innovation, and build resilient AI ecosystems. However, it was established as a voluntary and non-binding framework, respecting national laws, rather than a binding treaty. Statement 3 is Correct: The New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact was structured around seven thematic pillars of action, officially referred to as Chakras. These foundational areas included Access for Social Empowerment, AI for Science, and Secure and Trusted AI, alongside Democratizing AI Resources, Economic Growth & Social Good, Human Capital Development, and Resilient, Efficient & Innovative AI Systems. Therefore, option D is the correct answer.
Consider the following
1. Aarogya Setu
2. CoWIN
3. Digi Locker
4. DIKSHA
Which of the above are built on top of open-source digital platforms?
An open-source digital platform is essentially a software platform where the underlying code is freely available for anyone to see, modify, and distribute. This openness fosters collaboration, transparency, and innovation in software development. All of the above (1. Aarogya Setu, 2. CoWIN, 3. Digi Locker, 4. DIKSHA) are built on top of open-source digital platforms. - Aarogya Setu initially wasn't open-source, but the Indian government later made its source code available. - CoWIN leverages open-source software for its development. - DigiLocker utilizes an open-source platform called Digital Locker System.
- DIKSHA is built on the open-source platform Sunbird.
With reference to Web 3-0, consider the following statements :
1. Web 3-0 technology enables people to control their own data.
2. In Web 3-0 world, there can be blockchain based social networks.
3. Web 3-0 is operated by users collectively rather than a corporation.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Statement 1 is correct. A key aspect of Web 3.0 is the concept of decentralization, where users have more control and ownership over their personal data, rather than having it stored and controlled by centralized platforms. Statement 2 is correct. Blockchain technology is a core component of Web 3.0, and it can enable the creation of decentralized, user-owned social networks and platforms. Statement 3 is correct. The decentralized nature of Web 3.0 means that it is not controlled by a single corporation or entity, but rather operated and maintained collectively by the users and participants in the network. Therefore, all three statements regarding Web 3.0 are correct.
Which of the following statements with regard to drone swarms is/are correct ?
1. They use Terahertz band of frequency to communicate with the command centre.
2. Individual drones in the swarm can communicate with other drones in the swarm.
3. GPS Spoofing is a commonly used technique to counter drone swarm attack.
Select the answer using the code given below :
Statement 1 is Incorrect: Drones typically communicate with ground command centres using standard Radio Frequency (RF) bands (e.g., UHF, S-band, L-band) or Satellite Communications (SATCOM) to ensure reliable, long-range connectivity. The Terahertz (THz) band is an emerging, highly experimental frequency envisioned for future 6G networks. Because THz waves suffer from severe atmospheric attenuation and have a very short range, they are currently being researched for high-speed inter-drone (drone-to-drone) communication at close proximity, not for long-range links to a command centre. Statement 2 is Correct: The defining characteristic of a drone swarm is decentralized collective intelligence. Individual drones actively communicate with one another (often via ad-hoc mesh networks) to coordinate formations, share sensor data, avoid collisions, and adapt to real-time environmental changes without relying on a central controller. Statement 3 is Correct: Electronic Warfare (EW) is a primary defense against drone swarms. GPS Spoofing is a standard and commonly used countermeasure. It involves broadcasting fake satellite signals to deceive the drones' navigation systems, forcing them off course, causing mid-air collisions, or triggering forced landings. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.
Which of the following statements about Real-World Assets (RWA) Tokenization are correct?
1. Tokenization is the process of turning real world assets into digital tokens using blockchain technology.
2. Tokenization of real world assets offers 24x7 access, promoting financial inclusion.
3. Tokenization of real world assets will allow the access to high growth investment opportunities for individuals in India.
Select the answer using the code given below:
Statement 1 is Correct: Real-World Asset (RWA) Tokenization is the process of converting the ownership rights of physical or traditional financial assets (such as real estate, gold, commodities, or bonds) into digital tokens on a distributed ledger or blockchain. Each token represents a proportional share or claim on the underlying asset. Statement 2 is Correct: Unlike traditional financial markets and real estate registries that have fixed operating hours, geographic limitations, and settlement delays, blockchain-based tokenized assets can be traded globally, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with near-instant settlement. Additionally, tokenization allows high-value, traditionally illiquid assets to be divided into smaller, affordable fractions. This lowers the barrier to entry, enabling retail investors and underserved populations to participate in wealth-building markets, thereby directly promoting financial inclusion. Statement 3 is Correct: In the Indian context, RWA tokenization democratizes access to high-growth, capital-intensive sectors (like commercial real estate, agricultural land, and infrastructure projects). Regulatory bodies like the IFSCA (in GIFT City) have already begun approving tokenization platforms under regulatory sandboxes to unlock these previously inaccessible investment opportunities for everyday Indian retail investors. Therefore, all three statements are correct, making the correct option A.
Show 3 more PYQs
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Smart India Hackathon 2017?
1. It is a centrally sponsored scheme for developing every city of our country into Smart Cities in a decade.
2. It is an initiative to identify new digital technology innovations for solving the many problems faced by our country.
3. It is a programme aimed at making all the financial transactions in our country completely digital in a decade.
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Smart India Hackathon (SIH) is not a scheme for developing Smart Cities. Instead, it is a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying innovative digital technology solutions to solve real-world challenges across various sectors. Statement 2 is correct: The Government of India launched the Smart India Hackathon to encourage students and professionals to develop innovative digital solutions for challenges in agriculture, health, education, energy, environment, and other domains. It serves as a platform for young minds to engage in problem-solving and contribute to technological advancements. Statement 3 is incorrect: While the hackathon focuses on digital technology innovations, it is not specifically centered on digital financial transactions. Instead, it covers a wide range of sectors where technology can drive efficiency and innovation. Hence, correct answer is option (B).
Which of the following statements with regard to the National Quantum Mission (NQM) is/are correct?
1. It aims at developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits.
2. Its implementation includes setting up of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in academic and national R&D institutes across India.
Select the answer using the code given below:
Statement 1 is Correct: The National Quantum Mission (NQM) aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50 to 1000 physical qubits within 8 years. Specifically, it targets 50–100 physical qubits in 5 years and scales up to 50–1000 physical qubits in 8 years using platforms like superconducting and photonic technology. Statement 2 is Correct: The implementation of the mission explicitly includes the establishment of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in top academic and national R&D institutes across India. These hubs focus on distinct technology verticals: Quantum Computing (led by IISc Bengaluru), Quantum Communication (led by IIT Madras), Quantum Sensing & Metrology (led by IIT Bombay), and Quantum Materials & Devices (led by IIT Delhi). Therefore, both statements are correct.
Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) are used to create the digital display in many devices. What are the advantages of OLED displays over Liquid Crystal displays?
1. OLED displays can be fabricated on flexible plastic substrates.
2. Roll-up displays embedded in clothing can be made using OLEDs.
3. Transparent displays are possible using OLEDs.
Select the correct answer using the code given below
An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) is a light-emitting diode (LED) in which the emissive electroluminescent layer is a film of organic compound that emits light in response to an electric current. Statement 1 is correct: One of the key advantages of OLED technology is that the organic light-emitting materials can be deposited on flexible plastic or metal foil substrates, enabling the creation of flexible and foldable displays. Statement 2 is correct: The flexibility of OLED displays allows for the creation of roll-up or rollable displays, which can be integrated into clothing and other flexible surfaces. Statement 3 is correct: OLED display technology can be used to create transparent displays, where the light-emitting pixels can be made semi-transparent, allowing the display to be integrated into various surfaces and objects. Therefore, all three statements are correct.