Reform of India's Film & Cinema Ecosystem

Why in News

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced:

1. High-Level Study Group
2. Model State Cinema Regulations

to improve the competitiveness and infrastructure of India's film industry.

High-Level Study Group

Chairperson: Prasoon Joshi

Purpose:

• Examine challenges facing Indian cinema
• Identify opportunities
• Suggest ways to improve global competitiveness

Report timeline: Within 3 months.

Model State Cinema Regulations

Objective:

• Encourage expansion of cinemas
• Particularly in:
  • Small towns
  • Rural areas

The Union Government will assist states with implementation.

UPSC Mains Perspective

Cinema is not merely entertainment. It contributes to:

Cinema → Culture → Soft Power → Employment → Creative Economy → Tourism

Potential benefits of expanding cinema infrastructure:

• Local employment
• Creative-sector development
• Cultural dissemination
• Tier-2/3 market expansion
• Growth of India's soft power

GS Link

GS I: Indian Culture
GS II: Government Policies
GS III: Economy & Employment