A high-level workshop titled “Developing the Filming Ecosystem in Uttarakhand” was held on June 25, 2025, at a hotel on Sahastradhara Road in Dehradun, with the aim of establishing Uttarakhand as a premier destination for film production. The event was jointly organized by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the Uttarakhand Film Development Council (UFDC).
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The workshop began with the ceremonial lamp lighting by Mr. Banshidhar Tiwari (CEO, UFDC), Dr. Nitin Upadhyay (Joint CEO, UFDC), Ms. Shilpa Rao (Director, Films, Ministry of I&B), and Mr. Ajay Dhoke (GM, NFDC).
Subsidies and Policy Push for Local Cinema
In his address, UFDC CEO Mr. Banshidhar Tiwari outlined the state’s proactive steps under the guidance of Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami to promote film production. He announced an additional 5% incentive subsidy for films shot at lesser-known locations and special subsidies for productions employing local artists. A one-time subsidy of Rs. 25 lakh was also declared for setting up single-screen cinemas, especially in hilly areas.
Mr. Tiwari added that UFDC is compiling an integrated directory of local suppliers, artists, and transport services to simplify the shooting process. He also revealed plans to launch a state film festival and Uttarakhand State Film Awards, in collaboration with NFDC.
National Integration and OTT Promotion
Ms. Shilpa Rao of the Ministry of I&B encouraged filmmakers to leverage government platforms like WAVES OTT and wavesbazaar.com to access subsidies and promote quality content. She underlined the role of technology and community-based cinema to boost regional storytelling.
Mr. Ajay Dhoke (GM, NFDC) discussed NFDC’s initiatives, while Mr. Ram Kumar Vijayan (AVP, Indian Cine Hub) presented how their portal streamlines the permission process across central, state, and local authorities.
Focus on Talent, Training, and Technology
Dr. Nitin Upadhyay (Joint CEO, UFDC) presented Uttarakhand’s film policy, which focuses on “Talent, Training, and Technology.” He highlighted facilities like production subsidies, single-window shooting permissions on public and forest lands, and efforts to empower local filmmakers.
Comprehensive Strategy for Film Sector Growth
The day also saw a joint meeting between senior officials from UFDC and NFDC. Discussions included enhancing cinema infrastructure, strengthening regional cinema, and accelerating the creative economy through targeted incentives and policy reforms.
Key dignitaries present included Ms. Shruti Rajkumar (VP, Indian Cine Hub), Mr. Mayur Patel (Manager, Film Bazaar, NFDC), Mr. Nachiket Shirolkar (Consultant, International Promotion & Film Festivals, NFDC), Mr. Ashish Kumar Tripathi (Additional Director, Information), and Mr. Abhay Kumar (Project Manager, Unicops).
