Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnav has taken two major decisions to promote the Indian film industry. A study group has been formed under the chairmanship of Prasoon Joshi and model cinema regulations have been prepared for states to adopt.
New Delhi [भारत]June 29 (ANI): Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnav today chaired a high-level meeting with senior officials of the ministry and directed for immediate structural measures to strengthen film production, distribution and technological integration.
In a significant decision, the Ministry has constituted a high-level study group under the chairmanship of Prasoon Joshi, Chairman, Prasar Bharati, to study the opportunities and challenges facing Indian cinema. This group will include industry experts and technology partners.
In another step, the Ministry has prepared Model State Cinema Regulations for adoption by the States. “The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has taken two major decisions today. These steps will help the Indian film industry to grow. They will also help in increasing the number of cinema screens across the country. These decisions have been taken at a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnav,” a release said.
Formation of study group under the chairmanship of Prasun Joshi
This study group headed by Prasoon Joshi will submit its report to the ministry in three weeks. It will look at steps to make Indian films more competitive in world markets and the impact of new technologies on cinema. These include Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Production. The group will suggest how Indian filmmakers can use these tools.
Main functions of study group
The group will also examine how filmmakers can access institutional finance from the market and what new funding options are available for film production, as well as study the problems filmmakers face in raising funds for production and distribution. The group will also focus on working with state governments and other stakeholders and identifying best practices. It will also recommend an overall policy framework for the long-term development of Indian cinema. The study group will consult all relevant stakeholders across the country.
Model Cinema Regulations for States
The release said that regulation of cinemas and theaters comes under the state list. “Different states follow different rules for various permissions required for cinemas and theatres. This has been a major hindrance in the development of cinema infrastructure, especially in smaller towns and rural areas,” it said.
To expedite cinema infrastructure, the ministry has prepared a set of model rules. These rules were drafted after talking to all stakeholders. The Ministry has now sent these Model State Cinema Regulations to all the State Governments and they have been requested to adopt these rules. The release said that the ministry will also help the states in implementing these rules.
“Together, these two decisions will create a strong, modern and globally competitive Indian film industry. Indian cinema will continue to be a powerful medium for creativity, culture and innovation,” it said. (ANI)
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