BREAKING: Govt takes a big step in promotion of domestic film festivals and Indian content globally

The government has issued guidelines for providing financial assistance to domestic film festivals through National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) under 'Development, Communication & Dissemination of Filmic Content (DCDFC)' Scheme. It has also issued guidelines for release of funds to Indian Missions/Posts through NFDC for promotion of Indian Cinema under DCDFC Scheme.

These guidelines serve as a framework to streamline the process of allocating financial assistance to film festivals across the nation, recognizing the pivotal role that film festivals play in promoting cultural exchange, artistic expression, and cinema appreciation.

The aim of these guidelines is to establish clear criteria and procedures for supporting such events. They are formulated to establish a structured framework for the allocation of financial assistance to film festivals organized or supported by State Governments across the country.

"By providing financial assistance, we seek to bolster the vitality of the film festival ecosystem, fostering an environment where filmmakers can showcase their work and audiences can engage with diverse cinematic experiences. These guidelines are designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in the allocation of resources, ultimately contributing to the growth and sustainability of film culture in our society," stated the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting's notification issued on July 4.

Through these guidelines, the government aims to facilitate the sustainable growth of film festivals, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities for filmmakers and audiences alike, the notification added.

Promoting Indian content globally

The MIB also aims to promote India as a preferred filming destination through the establishment of the Film Facilitation Office (FF0) and the launch of an incentive scheme for foreign production and official co-production of films.

In collaboration with various Indian missions and consulates abroad, the Ministry intends to enhance the soft power of India through Indian Cinema and increase the participation of Indian films in key international film festivals.

These guidelines aim at promotion of Indian Cinema through Indian Missions by providing financial assistance to the missions through National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and Ministry of External Affairs under Development, Communication and Dissemination of Filmic Content (DCDFC) Scheme.

The government has also identified countries in the notification. The list includes Australia, China, Israel, Brazil, Armenia, Indonesia, Netherlands, Argentina, Norway, UK, France, Portugal, Morocco, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Poland, Nigeria, Italy, Singapore, Uzbekistan, Japan, Mexico, Turkiye, Russia, Iraq and South Korea, among others.

The different countries have been divided into four categories 'A', 'B', 'C' & 'D' and financial assistance of Rs.80 lakh, Rs.40 lakh, Rs.20 lakh & Rs.10 lakh, respectively, shall be provided per annum for each category.