The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced two major initiatives aimed at strengthening India’s film industry, enhancing its global competitiveness, and accelerating the expansion of cinema infrastructure across the country.
The decisions were taken during a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi, where the minister directed immediate structural measures to support film production, distribution and technological integration.
One of the key announcements is the constitution of a high-level Study Group, which will be chaired by Prasoon Joshi. The panel will comprise industry experts and technology partners and has been tasked with examining the opportunities and challenges facing Indian cinema.
The Study Group will recommend measures to make Indian films more competitive in global markets while exploring the use of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and virtual production in filmmaking. It will also study ways to improve filmmakers’ access to institutional finance and alternative funding sources, address challenges in raising capital for production and distribution, and suggest a comprehensive policy framework for the long-term growth of the film industry in consultation with state governments and other stakeholders.
The committee has been asked to consult stakeholders from across the country and submit its report to the Ministry within three months.
In another significant move, the Ministry has prepared Model State Cinema Regulations to facilitate the expansion of cinema halls and theatres, particularly in small towns and rural areas.
As regulation of cinemas falls under the jurisdiction of state governments, different states currently follow varying approval procedures, often resulting in delays and discouraging investment in cinema infrastructure. To address this, the Centre has circulated the model regulations to all state governments for adoption.
According to the Ministry, the proposed framework has been developed after extensive consultations with stakeholders and is intended to simplify regulatory processes and create a more uniform policy environment. The Centre has also offered assistance to states in implementing the model regulations.
The Ministry said the twin initiatives are aimed at building a stronger, more modern and globally competitive Indian film industry while promoting creativity, innovation and wider access to cinema across the country.
