Kerala Rolls Out Draft Film Policy Aimed At Funding, Gender Equality And Global Reach
Kerala's draft film policy aims to formalise the industry, enhance global presence, and promote inclusivity. It includes financial mechanisms, gender equity, and tech adoption.
In a significant step towards transforming its film sector, the Kerala government has released a comprehensive draft film policy aimed at formalising the industry, enhancing its global footprint, and promoting inclusivity. The policy was unveiled on Saturday during the ongoing two-day Malayalam Film Conclave in Thiruvananthapuram.
Framed with a futuristic vision, the policy outlines strategic goals including industry recognition for film production and exhibition, improved financial mechanisms, gender equity, and the adoption of advanced technology. It also aspires to make Kerala a regional production hub while preserving the cultural legacy of Malayalam cinema.
Declaring that film production will now be recognised as a formal industry, the draft underlines the benefits of transparency, financial clarity, and social accountability. 'The recognition of film production as an industry will bring multiple advantages, enhancing transparency and promoting social responsibility within the sector," the policy notes.
One of the cornerstones of the policy is an inclusive financing framework. It proposes a general incentive scheme for Malayalam cinema, with targeted support for women and marginalised communities. Plans are also in place to establish a venture capital fund for film production, with the involvement of private players and provisions for crowdfunding, especially for films with strong social relevance. This fund will be managed by the Kerala State Film Development Corporation.
To ensure Kerala remains competitive on the global stage, the policy encourages the production of films in other Indian and foreign languages within the state. A single-window film facilitation centre will also be launched to simplify permit procedures and attract more projects to the region.
The policy highlights that India, producing over 2,000 films annually, remains the world's largest film-producing nation. Malayalam cinema ranks second after Hindi, with around 300 films produced each year. In 2023, Kerala contributed over ₹2,000 crore to the national box office, reflecting its significant role in India's cinematic economy.
A new Film Development Council, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and co-chaired by Culture Minister Saji Cherian, is proposed as the apex body to guide implementation. The council will also include an industry representative as vice-chairperson.
The draft has been circulated to stakeholders and will be deliberated further during the conclave, which concludes on Sunday. The government reiterated its commitment to consulting film bodies on matters such as fair wages, insurance, and working conditions, ensuring that reforms benefit every layer of the industry.
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