The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has established a high-level Study Group to strengthen India's film industry and cinema infrastructure. According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the group will be chaired by Prasoon Joshi, chairman of Prasar Bharati, and will include industry experts and technology partners. The Study Group will examine opportunities and challenges facing Indian cinema and recommend comprehensive measures to strengthen the sector. The Centre announced the setting up of this study group on Monday, with decisions taken at a meeting chaired by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The Study Group will conduct a comprehensive analysis of Indian cinema's competitive position in global markets and examine the impact of new technologies on cinema operations. As reported by PIB, the group will investigate how filmmakers can access institutional finance from the market and explore new funding options for film production. The panel will also address problems filmmakers face in raising money for production and distribution, and work with state governments to identify best practices. Among other issues, the group will examine steps to make Indian films more competitive in world markets, the impact of new technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual production, and ways to help filmmakers access institutional finance and new funding options for film production.
The Study Group will submit its report to MIB within three months and will consult all relevant stakeholders during the review process. According to PIB, the group will recommend a comprehensive policy framework for the long-term growth of Indian cinema. These measures are designed to strengthen film production, distribution, financing, and technology while supporting the expansion of cinema infrastructure across the country. The group will also work with state governments and recommend a policy framework for the long-term growth of Indian cinema.
To accelerate cinema infrastructure development, MIB has prepared a set of model rules for cinemas and theatres, which fall under the State List. As reported by PIB, the Ministry has sent these Model State Cinema Regulations to all state governments and requested them to adopt these rules. The Centre said it will also help states implement the Model State Cinema Regulations, aimed at ramping up cinema infrastructure. The Ministry noted that different states currently follow different rules for permissions required for cinemas and theatres, which has been a major roadblock to the growth of cinema infrastructure, especially in small towns and rural areas.
