India’s official entry to Academy Awards under foreign film category and movies that are officially selected in major international festivals will soon get a helping hand from the government. Union information and broadcasting minister M. Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday announced a new initiative for creation of a film promotion fund for such films.
Announcing the government decision at the press meet for 47th edition of International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on Tuesday, he said the financial help will be provided to filmmakers for promotion of their films at film festivals across the world.
Sources said the step is a part of the government’s efforts to promote Indian cinema in the international arena. The decision for providing the assistance would be based on recommendations of a panel of experts constituted by the government.
The proposed fund value for films being selected to represent India at Oscars is Rs 50 lakh-1 crore. The maximum amount for a filmmaker for the competition section of Cannes film festival is Rs 20 lakh while in Un Certain Regard and Director’s Fortnight, the amount would be Rs 15 lakh each. If a filmmaker makes it to the ‘In Competition’ section of Venice film festival, the amount would be to the tune of Rs 15 lakh. For Toronto International Film Festival and Busan’s new currents section, the value is Rs 10 lakh. For the window of Asian Cinema section of Busan International Film Festival and Locarno International Film Festival, the amount is Rs 7.5 lakh. Films going to festivals like Sundance, Rotterdam and Berlin also qualify for the assistance.
The initiative will cover expenses like engagement of publicist, travel of director, maker and key talent to make appearance at the red carpet and press meets, accommodation, screenings, advertising and networking.
The Directorate of Film Festivals has been designated as the nodal agency for implementing this initiative.
