E-Paper
Now a game to fight corruption
Anna Hazare’s ongoing agitation against corruption just got a helping hand of sorts, from unexpected quarters. Yes Prime Minister, a social game launched on April 1 on ibibo.com, now allows its players to build a corruption-free India.
Anna Hazare’s ongoing agitation against corruption just got a helping hand of sorts, from unexpected quarters. Yes Prime Minister, a social game launched on April 1 on ibibo.com, now allows its players to build a corruption-free India. Donning the role of the country’s Prime Minister (PM), gamers can take over ministries like healthcare, environment and education and start development projects in these departments. They can also hold court and punish corrupt fictional officials and politicians like ‘Karuna Needy’, ‘Chaven’, ‘Hasan Kali’ and ‘Lalit Moody’. The ultimate aim of this game is to allow people to build the India of their dreams, at least virtually.
“The young generation is fed up of corruption and this game lets people vent their frustrations and have a say,” asserts Rahul Razdan,
president, products and operations, ibibo web.
Yes Prime Minister starts off with a map of India. As PM, gamers take over various portfolios and start development projects in each. “If the projects are left unguarded, corruption seeps in, just like in real life,” adds Razdan. Gamers can then call in their friends to act as vigilance commissioners and rescue the projects.
Characters like ‘Radiya’, ‘Rajah’ and ‘Kalmaddy’ among others can be taken to court and punished for corruption. Points depend on how well the projects are developed and rescued from corrupt officials. “Our characters represent people who are public figures and are constantly in the news for all the wrong reasons,” says Razdan.
The game is still in its initial phase and there are plans to add new characters and situations. “We will also let players make their council of ministers depending on who is doing a good job with what portfolio, thereby initiating interactivity among themselves,” he says.
