The mobile is the message

The government at the Centre is known for its penchant for using social media and mobile platform to communicate with the people. And now, the state government seems to be doing something similar. To announce the launch of "Karnataka Mobile One", the Karnataka government's mobile governance system, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has opted for a mix of both. The invitation card for the launch is not exactly a card, but a dummy cardboard smartphone (complete with a replica screen, earpiece, front and rear camera, home button and the Karnataka government's emblem) fitted with a small speaker that carries a message from the CM. Open the flap cover and you hear: "Dear citizens of the state, I am your Chief Minister Siddaramaiah speaking. I am delighted to announce the launch of mobile governance of the Government of Karnataka. His excellency, the President of India, has kindly consented to launch Karnataka Mobile One... Karnataka mobile governance project is the first of its kind in the country and brings governance at your fingertips by dialling the number 161..."