Union I&B Ministry Announces Prasoon Joshi Committee and Model Cinema Rules to Boost Film Sector

The Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has announced two major structural initiatives aimed at invigorating the Indian film industry and expanding cinema exhibition infrastructure nationwide. The decisions were finalized during a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi.

As part of the first decision, the Ministry established an expert Study Group chaired by eminent lyricist and CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi. The group, comprising film industry veterans and technology specialists, has been tasked with analyzing key challenges and growth opportunities within the sector. The committee will examine global competitiveness, emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and virtual production, institutional credit accessibility for filmmakers, and distribution hurdles, with a directive to submit its recommendations within three months.

Concurrently, the Ministry released the 'Model State Cinema Regulations' and circulated them to all state governments. Because cinema regulation falls under the State list in India, fragmented local approval processes have historically delayed theater construction, particularly in Tier-2, Tier-3, and rural areas. The new standardized framework seeks to simplify single-window clearances, modernize safety standards, and encourage private investment in multi-screen theatres and single screens across the nation.