Ministry sources says while some states have already set up nodal agencies, others are yet to put it together
In an effort to ensure easy filmmaking in India and promote the country as a filming destination for foreign filmmakers, Centre wants every state to appoint a nodal agency to facilitate hassle-free clearances required for shooting films.
To this effect, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has recently written to all states, seeking a synergy between the states and the ministry in terms of providing foreign filmmakers with shooting permissions and required clearances in respective states.
"It is also suggested that a department of the state government, such as Department of Tourism/ Bureau of Industrial Promotion etc, could be designated as nodal department/agency to coordinate all the necessary work for facilitating filmmaking including clearances, law and order in case of outdoor shootings and other related matters," the letter sent across by joint secretary Ashok Parmar read.
Ministry sources said while some states have already set up nodal agencies, others are yet to put it together.
The I&B Ministry had set up a Film Facilitation Office (FFO) for foreign filmmakers and assist them in obtaining requisite permissions and disseminating information on shooting locations. It will also help coordinate with states for films being shot in their jurisdiction.
Ministry sources informed that this financial year, FFO has facilitated 18 film shootings.
With the same aim, the government has also been awarding states based on how film-friendly they are. While Gujarat won the award for being the most film-friendly state in 2015, Uttar Pradesh bagged the award this year at the 64th National Awards, for its film-friendly policies as well as incentives on tax and subsidies offered for films shot in the state.
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