Cinematic Extravaganza

The upcoming J&K Film Conclave, set to take place on August 1 in Srinagar, promises to be a cinematic extravaganza that will present Kashmir’s potential as a burgeoning hub for film production. The event will feature the launch of the Single Window Portal for Film Shooting and Subsidies, the inauguration of the J&K Film Screening Series and the Frames of Transformation Photography Competition. The J&K Film Conclave is being held as part of efforts by the government towards revitalizing the region’s film industry. The launch of the Single Window Portal is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to streamline the process of granting permissions for film shoots that would thereby attract more filmmakers to the area. The event will also feature award-winning films from the Naya Jammu Kashmir Short Film Making Competition and a premiere screening of “Country of Blind,” a film that promises to captivate audiences with its unique narrative. In addition to film screenings, the conclave will be attended by renowned director Madhur Bhandarkar and will host insightful panel discussions with film personalities such as Rahhat Kazmi, Paragg Mehta and Mir Sarwar. These discussions, coupled with workshops on filmmaking, will provide invaluable insights for both seasoned filmmakers and enthusiasts. The backdrop to this conclave is the Jammu and Kashmir Film Policy 2024. This policy, sanctioned by the Administrative Council under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, is designed to position J&K as a hub of cinematic creativity and productivity. It supersedes the previous J&K Film Policy 2021 and introduces several measures aimed at facilitating film production in the region. The establishment of a Single Window Cell is expected to expedite the process of granting shooting permissions, which has been a significant bottleneck in the past. The policy also includes a package of financial assistance to promote both government and non-government organizations involved in the publicity of cinema. The policy outlines the creation of several bodies, including the Film Development Council, J&K Film Division, Script Screening Committee, and Divisional Location Permission Committee. These bodies will work in tandem to ensure the smooth execution of film projects in the region. Additionally, a Film Development Fund, with an allocation of Rs 500 crore over the next five years, will provide subsidies and incentives to filmmakers. This fund is expected to stimulate significant economic activity, generating employment and promoting film tourism in the region. The policy also stipulates criteria for claiming subsidies, with a minimum of 20 days of shooting required for eligibility. The maximum subsidy for films in regional languages of J&K is set at Rs 1.25 crore, while a Film Development Fund will support production costs and ensure the screening of films on a minimum number of screens across the country. Now, the decision to host the film conclave in Srinagar, featuring prominent industry figures and award-winning films, will not only educate aspiring filmmakers but also help in building a creative community in the union territory of Jammu and