CALANGUTE, April 11 -- Team herald

Accusations have emerged from within Goa's tourism sector, alleging that social media bloggers and influencers are deliberately tarnishing the image of the coastal state, purportedly at the behest of rival regions and countries.

"There are bloggers and influencers who are trying to defame Goa and bring down the name of Goa. They're paid by some other states and countries. Because of them, the name of Goa is getting tarnished," said John Lobo, President of the All-Goa Tourism Stakeholders Association (AGTSA), during a press conference held in Calangute.

Lobo laid blame on social media for the noticeable dip in tourist arrivals this season, stating that online personalities often seize upon isolated inc...