This functional specification details the architecture, UI/UX structure, database schema, and operational mechanics required to build KuttanadApp Version 1.0 (MVP).

he Consumer Journey (Viewing Content)

• Onboarding & Geo-Fencing: Upon first launch, the app requests high-accuracy location permissions. The user selects their Home District, Panchayat/Municipality, and Ward. This selection sets the default curation seed for the video delivery algorithm.
• The Main Workspace: A clean, bottom-navigation container featuring three primary tabs:
  • Local Feed: A vertical-scrolling, short-form video player optimized for 9:16 vertical video. A prominent Top Toggle allows the user to switch seamlessly between "Live News" (red-accented theme, chronological sort) and "Village Stories" (green/blue-accented theme, engagement-weighted sort).
  • Explore (Map View): A dynamic map displaying cluster pins representing verified video uploads. Users can tap on a specific neighborhood or adjacent panchayat to watch local reels from that exact geographical point.
  • My Town: A static dashboard aggregating regional utilities: current local weather alerts, local panchayat helpline numbers, and notice-board announcements.

2. The Creator Journey (Uploading Content)

• The Capture Module: Triggered via a centered "+" action button. The app opens an in-app custom camera interface.
• Metadata Anchor (Anti-Spoofing): The app completely bypasses the device’s native gallery upload for the "Live News" category. Users must record live within the app. Upon recording, the application instantly embeds hardcoded metadata into the upload payload:
  • device_timestamp (Network-synchronized UTC time)
  • geo_coordinates (Latitude/Longitude array fetched via GPS hardware)
  • compass_heading (Direction of camera capture)
• Categorization Sheet: Post-recording, creators select the taxonomy: Category (News vs. Story), Sub-category (Civic Issue, Festival, Agriculture, Sports), and add a concise title (maximum 60 characters). The reel is then pushed to the verification queue.

📊 Database Architecture & Data Models

To support precise geographic querying and verification audit trails, the backend database requires structural spatial indexing.

Core Collections / Tables (Relational/PostgreSQL Structure)

Kuttanadnewsapp** is a revolutionary hyper-local digital lifestyle and utility platform designed exclusively for the state of Kerala. Built on a strictly enforced **"No Politics"** rule, the platform merges the high user engagement of short-form video reels and community storytelling with an essential local directory and marketplace Kuttanadnewsapp** is a revolutionary hyper-local digital lifestyle and utility platform designed exclusively for the state of Kerala. Built on a strictly enforced **"No Politics"** rule, the platform merges the high user engagement of short-form video reels and community storytelling with an essential local directory and marketplace