Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has announced that Jammu and Kashmir is making significant efforts to enhance its film-making facilities, with the goal of surpassing even European standards and securing a prominent place among global film destinations. Speaking at the J&K Film Conclave held at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre on the banks of Dal Lake, Sinha outlined the administration’s commitment to revitalizing the region’s cinematic appeal.
Addressing a gathering of prominent Bollywood directors, artists, short filmmakers, and film enthusiasts, Sinha emphasized the deep-rooted connection between Jammu and Kashmir and the Indian film industry. “You cannot separate J&K from cinema,” he stated, noting that the region has been an integral part of cinematic discussions in India. He acknowledged the challenges faced, including the impact of terrorism, but underscored ongoing efforts to restore J&K’s status as a favored filming location.
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted recent initiatives aimed at rebuilding J&K’s film culture. He noted that while the region’s previous film policy, introduced in 2021, had certain shortcomings, the newly launched Film Policy 2024 addresses these gaps comprehensively. The new policy features a Single Window Cell designed to streamline film shooting permissions and facilitate easier access to local talent. Additionally, it offers enhanced subsidy grants for both veteran and new filmmakers.
Sinha detailed improvements in road connectivity to filming locations and the administration’s dedication to supporting local youth. The goal is to create a compact and efficient film ecosystem that appeals to directors and producers.
Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, who attended the conclave, praised the new policy and encouraged the tourism department to promote unexplored locations in the region. Bhandarkar, known for films like “Fashion,” expressed optimism that the policy and the conclave would attract more filmmakers to Jammu and Kashmir.
“The film policy brought by the LG is very good. It will send a positive message to the film industry,” Bhandarkar remarked. He emphasized the global impact of cinema, which connects people through various elements beyond just music and costumes.
Also present at the event were Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Secretary of Information Rehana Batul, Director of Information Jatin Kishore, and other senior officials, as well as winners and participants of the Short Film-Making Competition.
The J&K administration’s push to enhance its film infrastructure and policy framework represents a significant step toward reestablishing the region as a leading destination for film production, leveraging its scenic beauty and cultural heritage to attract filmmakers from across the globe.
