The high-level study group constituted by the I & B ministry to examine the opportunities and challenges before the Indian film industry and to recommend measures for its long-term growth and global competitiveness will consist of the following members:
Prasoon Joshi – chairperson, G. Krishna Kumar (NFDC chairman), Ashutosh Gowariker, Vivek Agnihotri, Bimal Parekh, Aparna Purohit, Ritesh Sidhwani and joint secretary (films), I & B ministry.
The study group will:
(i) examine issues relating to access to institutional finance and innovative funding mechanisms for film production;
(ii) identify the challenges faced by filmmakers in mobilising resources for production and distribution;
(iii) assess the impact of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, virtual production and other digital innovations, and recommend strategies for enabling the Indian film industry to effectively leverage these technologies;
(iv) recommend measures for enhancing the global competitiveness of the Indian film industry;
(v) examine issues concerning the film exhibition sector, including increasing screen density, modernisation of cinema infrastructure, and reforms to strengthen theatrical exhibition across the country; and
(vi) engage with state governments, industry stakeholders and other concerned organisations to identify best practices and recommend a comprehensive policy framework for the sustainable growth of the Indian film ecosystem.
The study group will submit its recommendations to the I & B ministry within three months. It shall be facilitated by the NFDC, and the expenditure in this regard shall be met from the grant-in-aid of the NFDC.