Speaking at the opening ceremony of the first International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting L. Murugan said the region has the potential to once again emerge as a preferred destination for filmmakers from India and across the world.
The three‑day festival, staged in Srinagar, brings together directors, producers and critics to showcase regional cinema and to explore opportunities for co‑production. Murugan highlighted that the event reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of positioning J&K as a cultural and creative hub, signalling a renewed governmental focus on the arts sector.
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Murugan outlined several factors that could drive a revival: the valley’s diverse landscapes, from snow‑capped peaks to historic towns, modernised shooting permits, and a proposed incentive scheme that would offer tax rebates and logistical support to domestic and foreign crews. He urged industry bodies to engage with the state’s tourism and film departments to map out location‑specific packages.
Jammu and Kashmir was once a favored backdrop for Bollywood classics, a reputation that faded during periods of unrest. The minister’s remarks aim to rebuild that legacy by leveraging improved security, upgraded infrastructure and a growing appetite among global producers for authentic, untapped settings.
Film associations in Delhi and Mumbai welcomed the statements, noting that a clear policy framework could attract high‑budget projects and generate employment for local talent. They called for a dedicated film‑facilitation cell in Srinagar to streamline clearances and to promote the region in international market forums.
