AI tools reshape panchayat election campaigns in Telangana
HYDERABAD: Artificial intelligence, which has been transforming technology in multiple sectors, is now driving a new wave of digital campaigning in the panchayat elections. Candidates in village polls are using AI generated videos, memes and personalised messages to reach voters on every social media platform.
AI videos flood voters’ phones
WhatsApp alerts are increasingly leading voters to campaign videos. A single click connects them to Instagram or YouTube clips promising rapid village development if a candidate wins. AI generated audio and video claiming widespread support are circulating across villages.
With just a photo available online, political supporters are creating videos showing rival followers switching sides, posing with party scarves or participating in meetings. Old photos are being altered using new AI tools to depict candidates holding discussions with community groups.
Several contestants are hiring one social media agent for each ward. Their job is to create pro-candidate trends, generate AI backed videos and ensure these clips receive high engagement.
AI used for attacks and projection
AI is also being used to produce videos criticising rivals for poor roads, water supply and power supply, replacing traditional campaign messaging. At the same time, candidates are sharing AI-generated clips showing themselves meeting ministers, local MLAs and other political leaders to project influence.
Rising use of AI apps
The download and subscription count for AI related apps has risen sharply over the past month, said digital studio operator Nandagopal Varma. Tools such as Filmora, ChatGPT based AI generators and animators are witnessing higher usage across Telangana, he added. Students pursuing artificial intelligence courses are playing a key role in producing these videos.
Many students say they are using AI generated election content as an opportunity to showcase their skills in their native villages while earning an income. Speech and lip sync applications are among the most in-demand tools. Since some apps do not work in India, users are connecting through VPN services.
AI trend expected to grow
Studies show AI driven campaigning will extend from village polls to parliamentary elections. The Imperial AI Study Institute reported that 56,682 AI based applications were created by 2022 and projected the number to cross one lakh in the next decade. Research by the Pew Centre suggested that digital AI videos could significantly influence voters and raise campaign budgets. Venture Capital AI’s report said candidates may begin setting aside exclusive funds for AI content creation. The AI Security Research Centre warned that the rise of deepfakes requires greater focus on information safety.
‘A form of internship’
“I am studying an AI ML course in Hyderabad while helping with digital campaigning in our village,” said Maddini Teja Kumar, an AI ML student. “We are turning our learning into practical work by creating campaign videos. In a way, it has become an internship. Voters are responding well.”
‘Constant search for new apps’
“Candidates want something new every day,” said Vishnu Vardhan Reddy of a Warangal-based digital studio. “We keep searching for new AI apps to match their expectations. We even spend ₹1,000 or more to purchase the tools needed for fresh content.”
