The Punjab government has approved a major initiative aimed at countering anti-national, hateful, and fundamentalist narratives on digital platforms.

The project, costing Rs124 million, will be implemented by the Punjab Home Department. Officials said the plan will help strengthen monitoring and response systems against fake and provocative content.

The Punjab Home Department has received administrative approval from Secretary Ahmed Javed Qazi to launch a dedicated Media Think Tank.

According to officials, the unit will monitor mainstream media, digital media, and social media round the clock.

The project is set to be completed within two years. Its central aim is to identify fake news in real time and respond immediately through verification and corrective action.

Strict oversight of social media platforms

The think tank will keep a close watch on major platforms including X, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Officials said the system will help counter fifth-generation warfare threats by tracking harmful narratives and identifying coordinated disinformation campaigns.

Immediate action will be taken on any fake or provocative content related to extremism, chaos, or public unrest. Analytical reports will be regularly compiled to document trends, track misinformation spikes, and guide timely interventions.

The Departmental Development Sub-Committee of the Punjab Home Department has formally approved the project, clearing the final administrative step. With approval in place, the department is now set to begin the implementation phase, which includes staffing, technology deployment, and establishing monitoring protocols.