MIB sets up Prasoon Joshi-led panel to chart roadmap for film industry’s growth

The panel will also study how the industry can gain better access to institutional finance and explore alternative funding mechanisms for film production

by e4m Staff
Published: Jun 30, 2026 9:23 AM | 3 min read

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) of India has announced two initiatives to enhance the film industry and cinema infrastructure, including the formation of a high-level study group led by Prasoon Joshi and the introduction of model cinema regulations for states.
The study group, tasked with examining challenges and opportunities in the Indian film sector, will focus on improving global competitiveness, evaluating the impact of emerging technologies, and exploring alternative funding mechanisms for filmmakers, with a report due in three months.
The model cinema regulations aim to simplify the establishment and operation of cinema halls across India, addressing fragmented state regulations that hinder infrastructure expansion, particularly in smaller cities and rural areas.
These initiatives are designed to prepare the film industry for technological advancements and competition from global streaming platforms while fostering a more robust ecosystem for film production, distribution, and exhibition.

In a bid to strengthen India's film industry and accelerate the expansion of cinema infrastructure, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) announced two key initiatives, including the formation of a high-level study group chaired by lyricist and Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Chairman Prasoon Joshi, and the rollout of model cinema regulations for states.

The decisions were taken at a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi. The ministry said the measures are aimed at creating a modern, globally competitive film ecosystem by addressing longstanding challenges in film financing, technology adoption, policy coordination and cinema infrastructure.

The newly constituted study group, comprising industry experts and technology partners, has been tasked with examining the opportunities and challenges facing the Indian film sector. It has been given three months to submit a comprehensive report with recommendations to the ministry.

Among its key areas of focus will be identifying strategies to enhance the global competitiveness of Indian films, evaluating the impact of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual production on filmmaking, and recommending ways for filmmakers to adopt these technologies.

The panel will also study how the industry can gain better access to institutional finance and explore alternative funding mechanisms for film production. It will examine the hurdles filmmakers face in raising capital for production and distribution, an issue that has long constrained independent producers and smaller studios.

In addition, the study group will work with state governments and other stakeholders to identify best practices and propose a comprehensive policy framework aimed at supporting the long-term growth of India's film industry.

"The group will consult stakeholders from across the country before submitting its recommendations," the ministry said.

Push to expand cinema infrastructure

Alongside the policy review, the ministry has also introduced a set of Model State Cinema Regulations designed to simplify the process of establishing and operating cinema halls across India.

Since cinema regulation falls under the State List of the Constitution, states currently follow different regulatory frameworks and approval processes for theatres and multiplexes. Industry stakeholders have often cited fragmented regulations and multiple permissions as major hurdles in expanding cinema infrastructure, particularly in Tier-II, Tier-III cities and rural markets.

The ministry said it has prepared the model regulations after extensive consultations with stakeholders and has circulated them to all state governments for adoption. It has also offered assistance to states in implementing the new framework.

The move is expected to reduce regulatory complexities, encourage fresh investments in exhibition infrastructure and improve access to cinemas beyond metropolitan markets.

Industry experts have long argued that India's screen density remains significantly lower than several major global film markets despite being one of the world's largest producers of films. Simplified regulations could help bridge this gap while creating new opportunities for regional cinema and local exhibitors.

Focus on technology and global competitiveness

The government's latest initiatives come at a time when India's film industry is navigating rapid technological disruption, changing audience preferences and growing competition from global streaming platforms.

The inclusion of AI, virtual production and alternative financing models within the study group's mandate signals the government's intent to prepare the industry for the next phase of technological transformation while strengthening its international positioning.

The ministry said the combined measures are intended to create a stronger ecosystem for film production, distribution and exhibition, enabling Indian cinema to continue serving as a driver of creativity, culture and innovation while enhancing its global reach.