Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Announces Two Major Decisions to Boost Indian Film Industry

**Executive Summary** The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has announced two major initiatives to bolster the growth of the Indian film industry and increase cinema screens nationwide. Key actions include the formation of a high-level Study Group to address industry challenges and the release of Model State Cinema Regulations for adoption by states. The Study Group is mandated to submit its comprehensive report within three months of its formation on June 29, 2026. **Key Points / Main Content** **Establishment of a High-Level Study Group** * **Leadership and Composition:** The group is chaired by Shri Prasoon Joshi and consists of industry experts and technology partners. * **Global Competitiveness:** The group will recommend strategies to strengthen the sector and make Indian films more competitive in international markets. * **Technological Integration:** A primary focus is studying the impact of new technologies, specifically Artificial Intelligence (AI) and virtual production, and how filmmakers can utilize these tools. * **Financial Reforms:** The group will investigate ways for filmmakers to access institutional finance and identify new funding options for production and distribution. * **Policy Framework:** In collaboration with State Governments, the group will identify best practices to recommend a long-term policy framework for the industry. * **Deadline:** The group must consult stakeholders across the country and submit its final report to the Ministry within three months. **Model State Cinema Regulations** * **Standardization of Rules:** To address the "roadblock" caused by inconsistent state-level permissions, the Ministry has drafted a set of model rules for cinema and theater regulation. * **Infrastructure Growth:** The regulations aim to accelerate the development of cinema infrastructure, with a specific focus on expansion into small towns and rural areas. * **Collaborative Implementation:** The Ministry has sent these regulations to all State Governments for adoption and has committed to assisting states in putting these rules into practice. **Impact Analysis** **State Governments** **Impact:** These entities currently hold the power to regulate cinemas under the State list, often resulting in fragmented and complex permission processes. **Action Required:** States are requested to adopt the "Model State Cinema Regulations" and coordinate with the Ministry for their implementation to streamline local infrastructure growth. **Indian Filmmakers and Production Houses** **Impact:** They stand to benefit from improved access to market finance, better distribution networks, and guidance on integrating AI and virtual production into their workflows. **Action Required:** Relevant stakeholders should engage with the Study Group during the consultation phase to voice concerns regarding funding and production challenges. **The Study Group (Chaired by Shri Prasoon Joshi)** **Impact:** This body is responsible for shaping the future regulatory and technological landscape of Indian cinema. **Action Required:** The group must conduct nationwide consultations and deliver a report to the Ministry within the three-month deadline. **Cinema Infrastructure Developers** **Impact:** Simplified regulations are expected to reduce barriers to building new theaters, particularly in underserved rural and small-town markets. **Action Required:** Developers should monitor state-level adoption of the model rules to plan for expansion and new screen installations.

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