New Delhi, December 26, 2025 – In a significant update reflecting the demands of the digital era, the Indian Army has revised its social media guidelines, permitting personnel across all ranks to access Instagram for the first time. However, the access is limited to “passive participation,” meaning soldiers and officers can only view and monitor content—no posting, commenting, liking, sharing, or messaging is allowed.
The new policy, issued by Army Headquarters through the Directorate General of Military Intelligence (DGMI), took immediate effect on December 25, 2025. It formally adds Instagram to the list of restricted-use platforms, allowing its use solely for “purposes of viewing and monitoring.” The directive explicitly states: “No comments or views will be communicated on Instagram.”
Key Highlights of the Revised Policy
- Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and Quora: Permitted only for passive viewing to gain knowledge, stay informed about national and global developments, or identify misinformation. Any form of active engagement, including “liking” a post (considered user-generated content), is prohibited.
- Messaging Apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Skype): Allowed for exchanging unclassified, general information—but strictly with known contacts. Users bear full responsibility for verifying recipients to avoid security risks.
- LinkedIn: Restricted to professional use, such as uploading résumés or seeking employment-related information.
- Facebook: Remains completely banned for all personnel.
The policy also advises extreme caution with cloud storage services and warns against using generic websites, pirated software portals, torrents, VPNs, or anonymized platforms.
Background and Rationale
This relaxation comes after years of stringent restrictions. In July 2020, amid heightened security concerns—including risks of honey-trapping, data leaks, and exposure to Chinese-linked apps—the Army ordered personnel to delete accounts on 89 apps, including Facebook and Instagram.
The latest changes acknowledge the pervasive role of social media in modern information ecosystems. Complete isolation could hinder personnel’s awareness of current events, disinformation campaigns, or hybrid warfare tactics. By allowing controlled, passive access, the Army aims to enhance vigilance while minimizing risks of inadvertent leaks or exploitation by adversaries.
Defence sources emphasize that the policy balances operational security with the need for digital fluency in today’s connected world. It applies to all ranks and builds on periodic revisions to adapt to evolving threats.
This move aligns with similar controlled approaches in other militaries, ensuring personnel remain informed without compromising national security.
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