The Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh has introduced a new social media policy aimed at regulating content on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X, while also encouraging influencers to promote the state’s initiatives. The Uttar Pradesh Digital Media Policy, 2024, drafted by the state’s information department, received approval from the state cabinet.
Severe Penalties for Anti-National Content
According to the new policy, posting ‘anti-national’ content on social media is considered a serious crime and can result in a prison sentence ranging from three years to life imprisonment. Additionally, posting obscene or defamatory content online could lead to criminal defamation charges initiated by the government.
Following a UP cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Minister Sanjay Nishad commented, “Today, a policy is being formulated for social media, Instagram… These platforms will now be regulated, and advertisements will also be given. Several policies have been established…”
Generous Rewards for Influencers
The policy introduces a digital agency named ‘V-Form,’ which has been tasked with managing the government’s advertising efforts on social media. This agency will be responsible for overseeing the distribution of videos, tweets, posts, and reels. Influencers, agencies, and companies will be categorized into four groups based on their number of subscribers or followers.
Under the new policy, influencers will receive payments for creating content that promotes the state government’s welfare schemes and achievements. Influencers on X, Facebook, and Instagram can earn up to ₹5 lakh, ₹4 lakh, and ₹3 lakh per month, respectively.
YouTube influencers will have different payment structures depending on the type of content they produce. Content creators making YouTube videos could receive up to ₹8 lakh per month, while those creating short films, podcasts, and other content types will be eligible for payments of up to ₹7 lakh, ₹6 lakh, and ₹4 lakh, respectively.