Government to fund, push films for global stage

Indian movies, attempting to compete and qualify for Academy Awards (Oscars) or other prestigious international awards, are soon likely to receive a helping hand from the Narendra Modi government. It is understood that the Union information and broadcasting ministry has received an in-principle approval from the Prime Minister’s Office regarding the proposal and it is soon likely to hold consultations with the industry on the same. Sources stated that as part of the plan, the government is expected to create a dedicated fund for lobbying and pushing Indian films for the prestigious awards.

The need for creation of a dedicated fund for the promotion of Indian films at international-level was felt as production houses were unable to meet the high costs. Despite being the largest film producer in the world, films from the country have failed to have a significant impact on such international films awards. It was felt India was not receiving the adequate push that is required at the international-level and hence, the push for the dedicated fund, sources stated.

A consultation process with the industry stakeholders is expected to finalise criteria regarding the choice of the film as entries for prestigious film festivals across the globe. Interestingly, several other countries have dedicated funds and campaigns for promoting their films at international festivals. While despite being the world’s largest producer of films India does not have an effective and clear policy on this front.