A covert AI-powered influence network has for years been promoting pro-India narratives across X, Facebook and other social media platforms, according to researchers.

The network consists of at least 500 Facebook and 904 X (formerly Twitter) accounts that have been engaged what appears to be a coordinated effort to promote pro-India content, bolster the image of the Narendra Modi-led administration and undermine neighbouring countries.

The accounts were busily posting, reposting, and commenting on content intended to spread favour for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration in India. The content also routinely casts aspersions on China, the Maldives, Bangladesh (following the popular ousting of its former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina) and Pakistan.

Despite the extensive use of AI to generate content, the network's activities have not significantly increased audience engagement. Many posts received little interaction beyond replies from its own accounts, indicating that the influence efforts may have been largely ineffective.