Jharkhand Launches Influencer Program to Boost Tourism with Up to $12,000 Grants

KUNAL KUMAR |AMERICA NEWS WORLD

Ranchi, India – September 30, 2025 – The Indian state of Jharkhand has kicked off a new program to promote its stunning landscapes and rich culture on social media. Called the “Influencer Engagement Programme 2025,” it will pay content creators between $3,600 and $12,000 to share stories about the state’s hidden gems with the world.

Jharkhand’s tourism officials say this move will spotlight the state’s green hills, ancient tribal customs, lively folk dances, colorful festivals, and tasty local foods. “We want everyone to see what makes Jharkhand special,” one official told reporters. The program targets influencers on apps like Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and X (once Twitter). It favors travel vloggers, food bloggers, and short-video makers who can make fun, eye-catching posts about the state’s spots.

The cash rewards depend on the creator’s size – from small “nano” influencers to huge “mega” stars – plus how many views and likes their content gets. This isn’t just about pretty pictures; it’s a smart way to draw more visitors and give young locals a chance to earn money from their talents.

Jharkhand hopes this will help its youth become proud ambassadors for the state. In a crowded Indian tourism scene, social media could give Jharkhand a fresh edge, pulling in travelers from across India and abroad. “It’s a win for creators and our economy,” said a tourism leader.

The state has picked 528 key sites for the campaign, split into four groups: nature spots like the calm hills of Netarhat and wildlife parks in Hazaribagh and Betla; holy places such as Baidyanath Temple and Trikut Hills in Deoghar; cultural treasures including Rajrappa Temple, Maluti’s old shrines, Parasnath mountain, Lugu Buru peak, and the quirky McCluskieganj village; and vibrant tribal events like the Sarhul spring festival, Karma harvest dance, and Sohrai wall paintings.

To make it easy, the Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation will offer free two-night stays at its hotels, rides in government cars, and help from forest rangers and eco-guides. The program also aims to hire rural kids for jobs, sparking growth in small villages. Creators can weave in tales of local life, turning short clips into powerful stories that put Jharkhand on the map.

This comes as India pushes digital tools to revive tourism after tough years. Jharkhand, with its mix of jungles, rivers, and indigenous roots, has long been overlooked. But experts say influencers could change that fast – think viral videos of sunrise over waterfalls or street food feasts drawing adventure seekers.

Not everyone is on board yet. Some worry about fake hype or environmental strain from more crowds. Still, officials promise strict rules: content must be real, respectful, and green-friendly. Applications open soon, with picks based on creativity and reach.

As global travel rebounds, programs like this show how governments are teaming up with online stars. Jharkhand isn’t alone – states like Kerala and Rajasthan have tried similar gigs. But with big payouts and a focus on tribes, this one stands out.

For American travelers eyeing India, Jharkhand offers off-the-beaten-path thrills: hike misty plateaus, spot elephants in the wild, or join drum-beating rituals. Follow #JharkhandInfluencer for the first posts.