To boost tourism, Chandigarh Admn will roll out Film Policy soon

Recognising the significance of film production in promoting tourism, the UT Administration will soon roll out its own Film Policy.

According to officials, the Administration is considering adopting the Central Government’s film guidelines with some amendments to formulate its own policy. The guidelines are being prepared for all states and union territories, which Chandigarh will implement with some changes according to its own requirements.

At present, permission for film shooting in the city is granted within seven days. With the implementation of the policy, it is set to become easier and faster. Also, the single-window system will also be strengthened to speed up the permissions.

A meeting of all Tourism Secretaries from across the country was held in Srinagar to apprise them of the opportunities available and policies for film production. Before the release of the film “3-Idiots”, a few people knew about Pangong Lake in Ladakh. But now, it has now become a big tourist destination in the country. On the same lines, the Central Government is trying to encourage shooting of more and more films at tourist places.

During the meeting, the participants were informed that a film guideline is being prepared by the Government of India for all states and union territories, which will be released soon. The draft is expected within the next three months. After the release of the draft, the Chandigarh Administration will implement it with certain amendments.

According to officials, the Centre’s guidelines would include incentive offers to encourage producers to shoot at tourist spots.

Former MP Kirron Kher had proposed the setting up of a Film City in Chandigarh. Now, the officials hoped the implementation of Film Policy could pave the way for the development of the Film City here.