UP on cusp of becoming hub of film production; Govt gives thumbs-up to improved Film Policy 2023

Always endearing to watch a movie shot in your own city, is it not? It renders a unique and authentic film-making/watching experience altogether. Which is why this fresh film policy could benefit film makers and movie buffs alike.

With an overall objective of metamorphosing the film and tourism sectors of Uttar Pradesh, the government has given a thumbs up to an improved state Film Policy 2023.

The said policy will provide for subsidy of 50% of the cost of the production if the films encompass Braj, Awadhi, Bundeli, or Bhojpuri scripts. While for films made in English, Hindi, and other languages, this subsidy will be 25% of the total cost.

Also a good news for anyone who wants to install a studio or lab in the state — the policy will ensure provision of 25% or a maximum of ₹50 lakh for the same. The same amount will be increased to 35% if the set ups are opened in areas of Bundelkhand, Purvanchal, or Vindhyachal.

Incentives will also be given for shooting of web series in UP. This will also give a boost to the state tourism. This film policy will also be applicable to the movies made in the film city in Noida.

In November 2021, Uttar Pradesh was chosen as the friendliest state for film shooting at Goa's 52nd International Film Festival of India. The state was extolled for propagating numerous activities related to film-making.

From Umrao Jaan in Lucknow to Brahmastra in Varanasi, from Pardes in Agra to Tanu Weds Manu in Kanpur, UP has seen the making of and sheltered some big-budget and extremely popular films through the years.

The efforts are being put in to brand the state as a hub for film production and to propel the culture-rich, historical, and architectural significance of the various cities of the state.

At the same time, it is focussed on promoting 'ease of filming' and giving employment to local population and support aspiring film-related careers.