Article Today, Thiruvananthapuram:
The Kerala government has introduced a comprehensive draft film policy aimed at overhauling the state’s film sector. The draft, unveiled during the two-day Malayalam Film Conclave in Thiruvananthapuram, envisions cinema as an official industry. It seeks to grant formal recognition, ensure inclusivity, and promote Kerala as a major film production hub.
Focus on Gender Equality and Cultural Identity
The policy outlines a roadmap to promote gender parity, harness modern technology, and protect the cultural legacy of Malayalam cinema. By encouraging balanced representation and sustainable filmmaking, it aims to transform the state into a regional powerhouse for creative production.
Cinema Now an Official Industry
One of the key elements of the draft is the formal recognition of cinema production as an industry. Officials say this will bring greater transparency, financial discipline, and social accountability to the sector. Recognising cinema as an industry will also help streamline funding and policy support.
Dedicated Corporation for Funding
To support film financing, the policy proposes a unified funding framework. This includes the creation of a venture capital fund managed by the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC). The fund will back films with strong social value and ensure targeted support for women and marginalised communities in the film ecosystem.
Single-Window for Multi-Lingual Productions
To attract more Indian and foreign-language productions, the draft proposes a single-window facilitation centre. This will ease clearances and encourage producers to choose Kerala as a filming destination. It also promotes cross-cultural collaboration and aims to bring global visibility to the state.
Support for Non-Mainstream Voices
The policy underscores the importance of equal opportunity. It prioritises the empowerment of underrepresented sections in the film workforce, including technicians and background workers. Remuneration reforms and fair working conditions are part of the proposed changes. The government has assured consultations with industry stakeholders to finalise these measures.
Strong Growth and Box Office Presence
India remains the world’s largest film-producing nation, with over 2,000 films annually. Malayalam cinema ranks second after Hindi, producing nearly 300 films each year. In 2023 alone, Kerala contributed over ₹2,000 crore to the national box office. This underscores the state’s growing importance in India’s cinematic economy.
New Council to Oversee Implementation
To implement the policy, a new Film Development Council will be formed under the leadership of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan. The council will oversee institutional reforms, funding, and infrastructure expansion. It will also engage in dialogue with unions and guilds to improve labour standards, insurance, and remuneration in the sector.
