MUMBAI: The Indian animation industry is currently growing at the CAGR of 30 per cent. Kids channels are likely to explode with more players and result in quick growth and big revenues, as nearly one third of India's population is below the age of 15. There are tremendous business opportunities in the areas of co-production, content acquisition and sales, licensing, merchandising etc with Indian animation and Game Production houses.

Keeping this scenario in mind, FICCI Frames has an entire track dedicated to animation and gaming.

Indian Animation Sector lately is receiving attention span of the world. The industry, so far, troubled with high investments, lack of trained manpower and stiff competition from Asian counterparts, has suddenly become the center of attraction for mature markets like US and Canada.

The various sessions scheduled are:

• CO-production in Animation: A win- win Game
• Project and Schedule Management in Animation & Gaming
• Marketing & Distribution of Animated Content & Games
• Master Class I: Script Writing for Animation
• Master Class II: Making of SFX Movie

Top honchos from animation sector like Electronic Arts, Asia president Jon Nierman, Stewart & Wall Entertainment, Australia's Richard Stewart, DI Group, LLC, USA's Craig Mumma, VES, USA co-chair and director Tim McGovern, Electronic Arts GM- Asean Christopher Thompson, Cinnamon, UK's Chris Rice, Toon Boom Animations Inc, Canada CEO Joan Vogelesang and Electronic Arts Music, Asia director- market research and development Michael McCabe amongst others will discuss the nuances of this very promising sector.

To recognise the excellence in the animation industry, FICCI has instituted, FICCI BAF (Best Animated FRAMES) awards. BAF Awards has received global attention and acceptance with participation from countries like UK, USA, Canada, Singapore, Denmark, Netherlands, Germany, Ireland, Hong Kong, Australia, Egypt, France, Italy, Thailand, Korea etc. The awards will be presented by none other than Barrie Osborne, Producer – Lord of the Rings, Matrix, Face off etc.

With its commitment to develop the Indian Animation Industry, FICCI strongly believes that soon Indian Studios would churn out their own properties to be distributed in the Global Market. As per Industry estimates the global animation industry is expected to boom to $ 70 billion by 2005. India is currently getting a small share of the huge animation pie, which is estimated to grow around $1.57 billion by 2005.

“If you think that’s enough, you ain’t seen nothing”, promises FICCI officials.