Centre backs regional filmmakers as new panel reviews film sector reforms

MUMBAI: The credits may roll on screen, but behind every film lies a script of funding, infrastructure and policy. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has outlined a series of initiatives to support independent and regional filmmakers, while announcing that a newly constituted High-Level Study Group will examine the challenges facing India’s film industry and recommend future policy reforms.

Responding to an unstarred question in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Dr L. Murugan said the government is already extending financial and institutional support to filmmakers through multiple schemes aimed at strengthening India’s film ecosystem and improving its global competitiveness.

The minister said the Development, Communication and Dissemination of Filmic Content (DCDFC) Scheme provides financial assistance for the production of regional films, benefiting filmmakers across the country, including those in Maharashtra.

He added that the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) continues to provide financial support to filmmakers while helping them access international markets through participation in major film festivals and film markets.

To expand the global reach of Indian cinema, the ministry is working with industry bodies such as FICCI and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to promote Indian films and facilitate international collaborations. Financial assistance is also being provided to Indian Missions abroad to organise programmes that showcase Indian cinema and strengthen ties between Indian and international film industries.

The government highlighted several initiatives designed to improve market access for filmmakers, including WAVES Bazaar, Work-in-Progress Labs, Viewing Rooms, film markets and international co-production programmes. These platforms are intended to provide project development support, networking opportunities and avenues for global distribution.

Addressing questions on Maharashtra’s film infrastructure, the ministry said the state remains one of India’s leading filmmaking hubs. It pointed to Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari (Film City) in Goregaon, alongside premier institutions such as the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune and the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) in Mumbai. A broad network of private production and post-production facilities also operates across Mumbai, Pune and Nashik.

While acknowledging the need to further strengthen the sector, the ministry said it has recently constituted a High-Level Study Group to examine issues affecting the film industry. The panel’s recommendations will form the basis for future policy interventions aimed at improving financing, infrastructure, international collaboration and the overall competitiveness of Indian cinema.

The government’s response comes amid growing calls from independent and regional filmmakers for greater financial support, easier access to production infrastructure and stronger international marketing, as India seeks to enhance its presence at leading global film festivals and content markets.