Last updated on July 23rd, 2024 at 12:22 am
In a significant development for India’s film industry, Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Anurag Thakur, shared a pivotal update in Parliament – 35 foreign film projects have been granted permission for production in India in the year 2023 until November. This announcement marks a substantial increase compared to 28 projects in 2022 and 11 in 2021.
Incentive Schemes Transforming the Landscape
Anurag Thakur shed light on the incentive schemes that have catalyzed this surge in foreign film projects. These schemes, effective since April 1, 2022, aim to position India as the preferred destination for international film production, fostering employment opportunities and boosting foreign exchange inflow.
Enhanced Incentive Scheme: A Game-Changer
The Minister highlighted the recent enhancement and simplification of the incentive scheme, announced on November 20, 2023. Under the revised scheme, all qualifying foreign film production projects and those produced under the Audio-Visual Co-production Treaty can now claim a substantial 30% cash incentive on qualified expenditures incurred in India.
Bonuses for Promoting Indian Talent and Culture
In a bid to encourage the incorporation of Indian elements, an additional 5% bonus is available for live shoots of foreign films that employ 15% or more Indian crew. For foreign film shooting and post-production work with significant Indian content, an extra 5% incentive can be claimed. This move aligns to promote Indian culture, talent, and tourist destinations through international film productions.
Strategic Increase in Limits
Anurag Thakur informed Parliament that the maximum limit of the incentive has been raised substantially from ₹2.5 crore to ₹30 crore. This strategic adjustment aims to attract major international film projects with significant budgets. Simultaneously, the maximum percentage of the incentive has been increased from the previous 35% to a more competitive 40%, ensuring a compelling proposition for foreign filmmakers.
The Film Facilitation Office’s Pivotal Role
The Film Facilitation Office, launched in November 2018, has played a pivotal role in streamlining the facilitation and clearance process for international filmmakers. The web portal, www.ffo.gov.in, has integrated with key government departments, such as the Archaeological Survey of India and the Ministry of Railway, facilitating shooting in historical and iconic sites.
A Cinematic Ecosystem: From Visa to Nodal Officers
The establishment of a cohesive ecosystem involving Nodal officers in key government bodies, State Governments, and Union Territories has streamlined the permission process and ensured ease of filming in their respective jurisdictions. The introduction of a Film Visa, offering multiple entries for one year, has further enhanced India’s appeal as an international filming destination.
As India’s film industry embraces the influx of foreign projects, these strategic measures by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting mark a decisive step toward creating a thriving global hub for cinematic creativity. The nation’s rich cultural tapestry, coupled with the allure of these incentives, positions India as a cinematic magnet on the world stage.
