When India held the G20 Presidency in 2023, it wasn’t just a moment of national pride, it set the stage for impactful digital storytelling and strategic communication. As the Social Media Executive at Press Information Bureau (PIB) Chandigarh, I was uniquely responsible for leading digital publicity, developing social media strategy, creating content, and managing live streaming for G20-related events across Punjab and Chandigarh.
From handling high-profile ministerial briefings to promoting cultural showcases, my work sat at the intersection of public diplomacy, real-time journalism, and digital storytelling. Here’s a closer look at my role in this historic moment.
1. Driving the Social Media Strategy for G20 Events in Punjab & Chandigarh
G20 coverage wasn’t about just posting updates, it was about crafting a narrative. I designed and implemented digital content strategies for events, including:
- 1st International Financial Architecture Working Group Meeting (Chandigarh)
- 2nd Education Working Group Meeting (Amritsar)
- 2nd Agriculture Working Group Meeting (Chandigarh)
Each post, visual, or video was tailored to reflect Punjab’s global image while resonating with local audiences. I ensured our content aligned with the G20’s themes, innovation, sustainability, and inclusion.
2. Coordinating Media Accreditation for Journalists
In addition to content duties, I was actively involved in the technical coordination of media accreditation for journalists covering G20 meetings in Chandigarh and Punjab. My responsibilities included:
- Managing online systems for accreditation applications
- Verifying credentials in collaboration with media organisations
- Ensuring smooth access and security compliance for media representatives
This role was critical in facilitating efficient media operations while maintaining the professionalism and security expected at a global diplomatic event.
3. Real-Time Content Creation and Live Streaming
For each G20 event under PIB Chandigarh’s jurisdiction, I managed:
- Live YouTube streams of key media briefings
- On-site social media updates across platforms (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook)
- Short-form videos and reels highlighting cultural visits (Golden Temple, Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake)
- Instant photo and video edits for press and public dissemination
This required real-time coordination with PIB HQ, Doordarshan, and All India Radio, ensuring timely and accurate public information.
4. Amplifying Local & Global Engagement
With a deep focus on Jan-Bhagidari (public participation), I helped create content that:
- Featured top institutions like IIT Ropar, TISS, and IIM Amritsar
- Highlighted 2023 as the International Year of Millets, with millet-based cuisine featured at G20 cultural events
- Captured real-time cultural moments from iconic heritage sites and traditional performances for deeper regional outreach
- Promoted the G20 Outreach Seminar on “Central Bank Digital Currency: The India Story” by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in Chandigarh
Through visuals, hashtags, and cultural storytelling, our G20 content reached diverse audiences, especially the youth.
5. Strengthening Media Relations Digitally
Beyond public engagement, my role involved supporting PIB’s mission of real-time media facilitation. I helped:
- Streamline media briefing uploads for press use
- Disseminate accurate, government-cleared visuals and quotes
- Ensure journalists have on-demand access to key G20 updates via YouTube and social media
This digital transparency helped position India’s narrative clearly in newsrooms.
6. Key Takeaways from the Experience
Working at the forefront of India’s global diplomacy was more than a job, it was a masterclass in:
- Content diplomacy through visuals
- Collaborative storytelling with national media and ministries
- Balancing creativity and protocol in government communication
Closing Reflection
My experience during India’s G20 Presidency sharpened my skills not only in social media strategy and content creation but also in strategic communication. It was a privilege to shape the digital narrative of India’s global engagement from the lens of Punjab and Chandigarh.
If you’re looking for someone who can combine content, culture, and clarity into high-impact digital campaigns, I bring that edge, built from experience at one of the highest global platforms.