Inaugurates J&K Film Conclave, Reveals Game-Changing 2024 Film Policy
SUHAIL KHAN
SRINAGAR, Aug 1: In a significant move to bolster the cinematic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha inaugurated the J&K Film Conclave today, organized by the Department of Information & Public Relations in Srinagar. Marking the event, the Lt Governor unveiled the much-anticipated J&K Film Policy 2024 and introduced a series of initiatives aimed at transforming the region into a hub for film production.
Key Announcements and Initiatives
During the conclave, the Lt Governor launched several initiatives including:
Single Window Portal
Single Window Portal for Film Shooting Permissions and Subsidies. It will be a streamlined platform designed to simplify the application process for filmmakers.
J&K Film Screening Series:
This initiative is supposed to foster a vibrant film culture and to provide a platform for emerging filmmakers of Jammu and Kashmir.
Frames of Transformation Photography Competition: A contest aimed at highlighting the beauty and transformation of J&K.
Additionally, the Lt Governor honored the winners of the Naya Jammu Kashmir Short Film Making Competition, celebrating the creativity and talent within the region.
Lt Governor’s Vision for J&K’s Film Industry
In his address, Lt Governor Sinha commended the Department of Information & Public Relations for organizing a series of events that brought together filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinema enthusiasts. He expressed optimism that the J&K Film Policy 2024 will attract and facilitate regional, national, and international film production in the Union Territory.
“The film-friendly and pragmatic J&K Film Policy will ensure that heaven on earth is truly a heaven for filmmakers. We will provide high-impact infrastructure, support in sourcing locations, a large pool of professionals, and financial incentives to make filming more attractive in J&K,” stated the Lt Governor.
He emphasized that the policy includes incentives for films in local languages, promoting regional cinema, and encouraging filmmakers to hire local talent, thereby generating employment opportunities for the local population.
New Initiatives to Drive Growth
Lt Governor Sinha highlighted the potential of the newly launched initiatives to create a multiplier effect, positioning J&K as a global film production hub. The Single Window portal will ensure efficient handling of formalities and seamless release of subsidies, making the process more accessible for filmmakers.
The J&K Film Screening Series aims to tap into the youthful and dynamic filmmaking culture of the region, providing a platform for emerging creators and film enthusiasts to exchange ideas and strengthen the Cine-club culture.
“J&K and cinema are a symbol of oneness and cannot be seen separately. They are a perfect match. For great filmmakers like Raj Kapoor and Yash Chopra, J&K was not only a shooting destination but also a cultural organism. In the past five years, there has been an effort to reconnect J&K with the culture of cinema and theatre. Our new initiatives highlight this resurgence,” added the Lt Governor.
Industry Accolades and Event Highlights
Renowned Bollywood filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar praised the Lt Governor and the UT Administration for their progressive film policy and initiatives aimed at creating a vibrant film ecosystem in J&K.
The J&K Film Conclave offers a collaborative platform for idea exchange and talent showcasing, aspiring to build a sustainable and thriving film ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. The event features a series of workshops on filmmaking, insightful panel discussions with film personalities like Rahhat Kazmi, Paragg Mehta, and Mir Sarwar, and screenings of award-winning films from the Naya Jammu Kashmir Short Film Making Competition. The premiere screening of “Country of Blind” and cultural performances by local artists added to the event’s vibrancy.
The Single Window portal, launched today, is set to simplify the process of applying for shooting permissions and subsidies, allowing filmmakers to apply online and streamline the entire procedure.
The event was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Secretary Rehana Batul, Director Information Jatin Kishore, senior officials, winners and participants of the Short Film-Making Competition, industry professionals, and cinema enthusiasts.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
