Mumbai: The Maharashtra Government has taken a significant decision to encourage the production of quality documentaries, short films and children’s films in the state. Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar announced a substantial increase in financial assistance for the production of documentary and short films and also declared that the State Government will produce a children’s film every year to ensure the availability of quality cinema for young audiences.
The announcements were made during a review meeting of the administrative functioning of Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari (Film City) held on Tuesday.
The meeting was attended by Cultural Affairs Department Secretary Dr. Kiran Kulkarni, Managing Director of the Maharashtra Film, Stage and Cultural Development Corporation Swati Mhase Patil, Joint Managing Director Prashant Sajanikar and other officers and staff members.
Under the State Government’s existing scheme, documentaries and short films were earlier eligible for financial assistance of ₹10 lakh each. Minister Shelar announced a substantial enhancement in this support, stating that financial assistance of ₹25 lakh will now be provided for each documentary and short film. This decision is expected to provide a major boost to the production of high-quality documentaries and short films on meaningful subjects.
Additionally, Minister Shelar announced that the State Government will produce one children’s film annually with the objective of providing quality cinema for young audiences. The Department of Cultural Affairs is already implementing various initiatives for the development of the film industry, and special emphasis will now be placed on the production of children’s films, alongside biographical films based on historical, social and cultural themes.
This decision of the State Government is expected to encourage both budding and established filmmakers and help increase the production of quality films that promote and preserve social, educational and cultural values.
