The Indian government is doubling down on its efforts to promote India as a global filming destination while expanding access to affordable cinema in rural areas. At a high-level conference held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting outlined bold plans to transform the creative economy through the India Cine Hub Portal, grassroots cinema initiatives, and public-private partnerships.
India Cine Hub Portal: One-Stop for Film Permissions
The revamped India Cine Hub is now a powerful single-window platform for film-related facilitation. Launched on June 28, 2024, it provides seamless access to permissions, incentives, and GIS-based location data across India.
The portal allows producers to apply through a Common Application Form and access differentiated workflows for filming and non-filming content. It also offers crowdsourced insights from professionals, enhancing India’s appeal as a film-friendly nation.
According to the Ministry, 7 States and 2 UTs have fully integrated the portal, while 21 more States and 6 UTs have started onboarding. This reflects India’s growing commitment to streamlining film permissions in India to boost ease of doing business.
WAVES and IFFI: Platforms to Showcase Talent and Locations
India is actively using international platforms like IFFI Goa and the WAVES Summit to promote regional cinema and attract global partnerships. The 55th IFFI witnessed participation from 114 countries, and the WAVES Bazaar drew over 2,000 industry delegates from 30 countries.
States and UTs are encouraged to set up dedicated pavilions at these festivals, promote filming incentives, and nominate local artists to the Indian Panorama. These steps will ensure global exposure for India’s creative talent and diverse landscapes.
Grassroots Cinema: Empowering Women and Rural India
Union Minister of State Dr. L. Murugan emphasized grassroots initiatives that promote low-cost cinemas in underserved areas. The Ministry has proposed modular and mobile theatres to reach Tier-3, Tier-4 towns and aspirational districts where screen density is low.
These community-based cinema halls aim to empower women and local communities, providing both employment and entertainment opportunities. The idea is simple yet powerful—bring cinema to the people rather than wait for them to travel to cities.
Creative Skills for the Youth: IICT Launched
In a major move to skill India’s youth, the government recently launched the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT). The institution focuses on animation, gaming, music, and new-age digital content—key growth areas of the creative economy in India.
This shows a clear intent to prepare the next generation of creators and boost India’s global standing in digital media production.
Press Sewa Portal: Simplifying Media Compliance
Another key announcement was the push for full implementation of the Press Sewa Portal. Built under the new PRP Act, 2023, it simplifies registration and compliance for periodicals and publications.
States have been asked to notify authorities and integrate with the portal. This will ensure transparency and ease for both legacy media and emerging digital publishers.
Local Talent & Vernacular Media Get a Boost
I&B Secretary Shri Sanjay Jaju highlighted the importance of strengthening district-level I&PR departments. He pointed out the rise of vernacular creators and the need to support them through infrastructure, training, and visibility.
With proper support, regional voices can become a powerful part of India’s creative future.
Live Entertainment: Policy Support for Growth
The Conference also explored ways to expand India’s live entertainment economy. Suggestions included using existing sports and cultural venues, appointing nodal officers, and offering fiscal incentives for events.
By streamlining permissions via the India Cine Hub and encouraging investment, states can unlock massive economic potential from concerts, theatre, and cultural festivals.
Public-Private Partnerships: Key to Creative Infrastructure
To promote affordable cinema infrastructure, the Centre is calling for private investment. GIS mapping will help identify underserved areas, while single-window licensing and tax incentives will reduce entry barriers.
The aim is to build sustainable cinema models in rural India without depending solely on public funds.
Conclusion: A Unified Vision for India’s Creative Future
The Centre’s roadmap reflects a bold vision—make India the world’s go-to destination for filmmaking and content creation, while also ensuring that cinema and creativity reach every corner of the country.
From India Cine Hub to low-cost cinemas and skill-building via IICT, the initiatives are set to reshape the media and entertainment landscape in India.
This collaborative approach between the Centre and States can transform India into a digitally empowered and culturally vibrant society.
