In a groundbreaking move, the UP government has introduced a new social media policy that significantly benefits influencers while tightening regulations on digital content. Under the newly approved policy, social media influencers in the state can now earn up to Rs 8 lakh per month, marking a substantial opportunity for those active on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
UP’s New Social Media Move
The new policy sets specific payment limits for influencers across various platforms. For example, influencers on YouTube can earn up to Rs 8 lakh per month for their videos, shorts, and podcasts. Instagram influencers can earn a maximum of Rs 3 lakh, while those on X and Facebook can earn up to Rs 5 lakh and Rs 4 lakh, respectively. These earnings caps are a significant step towards recognizing and legitimizing the work of social media influencers, offering them a structured income path within the state.
Big Offer For Influencers and YouTubers
The Uttar Pradesh government has listed a digital agency, ‘V-Form,’ to manage advertisements across social media platforms. This agency will be responsible for showcasing videos, tweets, posts, and reels, ensuring that influencers have a consistent and reliable revenue stream. By partnering with ‘V-Form,’ influencers can now access more opportunities to monetize their content, making social media a viable career option for many in the state.
Strict Penalties for Anti-National Posts
While the new policy offers lucrative earning opportunities, it also introduces stringent regulations to curb the misuse of social media. Posting anti-national content is now considered a serious offense, with penalties ranging from three years of imprisonment to a life term. This marks a significant shift from the previous legal framework, where such actions were addressed under Sections 66E and 66F of the Information Technology (IT) Act, which dealt with privacy violations and cyberterrorism.
Legal Ramifications for Online Misconduct
The new policy also addresses the dissemination of obscene or defamatory material online. Such actions can now result in criminal defamation charges, emphasizing the legal consequences of misusing digital platforms. The government aims to create a safer and more responsible online environment, where freedom of expression is balanced with the need to maintain national security and public order.
Balanced Approach to Social Media Regulation
The Uttar Pradesh government’s new social media policy represents a balanced approach to regulating online content. On one hand, it opens up significant earning opportunities for influencers, helping them build sustainable careers. On the other, it enforces strict penalties for those who misuse these platforms, particularly in cases involving anti-national content or online defamation. This dual focus ensures that while influencers can thrive, the digital space remains secure and respectful.
New Era for Social Media in Uttar Pradesh
The introduction of this policy signals a new era for social media in Uttar Pradesh. With the potential to earn up to Rs 8 lakh per month, influencers now have more reasons to pursue their passions on digital platforms. However, the accompanying strict regulations serve as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with this newfound freedom. As the state navigates this new digital landscape, it will be interesting to see how influencers and the broader social media community respond to these changes.
