Problema 1 · Inglés PAU Valencia Extraordinaria 2025

HOW A TINY VILLAGE BECAME A YOUTUBE CAPITAL

Tulsi, a village in India, has experienced a social media revolution, becoming a microcosm of YouTube's global impact. Villagers are actively creating content, transforming their local economy and activating social change. Jai Varma, a 32-year-old YouTuber, initiates video production, directing villagers in staged scenes. Nearby, Rajesh Diwar films a hip-hop performance, showing the village's diverse content creation. Tulsi, like other Indian villages, features simple infrastructure, but its distinction as India's "YouTube Village" sets it apart. With over 1,000 of its 4,000 residents involved in YouTube, the platform has become integral to Tulsi's life. The financial benefits have been significant, empowering women and shifting community conversations towards technology.

YouTube has a global influence, with India being a major market. Tulsi exemplifies YouTube's transformative power, where online videos shape daily life. "It is keeping the children away from bad habits and crime," says Netram Yadav. The transformation began in 2018 with Jai Varma and Gyanendra Shukla. Their viral videos, blending humor and social commentary, attracted a huge audience. The financial success enabled them to pursue a full-time YouTube career, inspiring others. Their team trained villagers in production, leading to more channels and volunteer participation. The state government, recognising the impact, established a studio in 2023, bridging the rural-urban digital divide. Pinky Sahoo, a 27-year-old, is a prominent example of Tulsi's success. Her dance videos led to film roles, showcasing the platform's ability to launch careers. Others also transitioned from YouTube to the regional film industry.

YouTube has empowered women. Draupadi Vaishnu, former village head, uses videos to address societal prejudices, particularly domestic abuse. Women are increasingly running their own channels, a significant change from pre-pandemic trends. Shriram Venkatraman, a digital anthropology professor, highlights YouTube's transformative impact, creating economic opportunities and global connections. Some residents even start related businesses. Ramkali Varma, a homemaker, contributes to videos without expecting financial gain, focusing on roles that address gender issues. She finds satisfaction in advocating for women's education. Sahoo now inspires young girls, promoting the possibility of achieving their dreams. The village is witnessing a shift in aspirations, with girls now aiming to become filmmakers. Rajesh Diwar is now focused on creating rap music in his local language, aiming to bring a new sound to the region and to make Tulsi known for its music. The village's transformation illustrates YouTube's power to democratise content creation, drive social change, and provide economic opportunities, particularly in rural communities.

Adapted from an article by Saqib Mugloo, on BBC, 18-02-2025.

Part I. Reading Comprehension

1. Are the following statements true (T) or false (F)? Identify the part of the text that supports your answer by copying the exact passage on the answer sheet. (2 points: 0.5 point each)

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True

False