Pilot Phase of ‘Gems of India’ Challenge Launched to Showcase Grassroots Digital Creators in Andaman & Nicobar

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, has launched the Pilot Phase of the "Gems of India" Challenge, a nationwide initiative aimed at discovering and promoting talented grassroots digital creators across the country. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands have been selected as one of the pilot regions for this prestigious campaign.

The initiative seeks to encourage local creators to produce engaging digital content that highlights the unique identity, culture, heritage, tourism, and traditions of the islands. Participants are invited to showcase authentic stories that reflect the rich diversity of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Who Can Participate?

The challenge is open to residents from all three districts of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands:

• South Andaman
• North & Middle Andaman
• Nicobar

Content creators, students, photographers, videographers, influencers, and creative enthusiasts are encouraged to participate.

What Can Participants Create?

Creators can submit original digital content featuring topics such as:

• Tourism destinations
• Tribal and cultural heritage
• Local traditions and festivals
• Cuisine and handicrafts
• Eco-tourism
• Wildlife and biodiversity
• Community stories
• Innovation and local achievements

Submissions may include:

• Short videos (1–3 minutes)
• Reels
• Podcasts
• Documentary clips
• Other creative digital formats

Submission Period

The submission window will remain open from August 1 to August 31, 2026.

Participants must register through the MyWAVES OTT App, create a Creator Profile, and upload their entries through the platform.

Awards & Recognition

Outstanding entries will receive recognition at multiple levels:

• District Level: Cash awards of up to ₹50,000 per district.
• State/UT Level: One creator from each participating district will receive a State/UT Award of ₹2 lakh.
• National Level: Selected creators will compete at the national stage for awards of up to ₹5 lakh each.

A Boost for Digital Creators in the Islands

The Andaman & Nicobar Administration has urged aspiring creators, students, and young storytellers to participate actively in the challenge. The initiative offers an excellent opportunity to showcase the islands' unique culture and tourism potential on a national platform while gaining recognition for creative talent.

The Gems of India Challenge is expected to inspire a new generation of digital creators and strengthen the visibility of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands through authentic local storytelling. (Source: Press Release IP&T)