Delhi Budget: City to host International Film Fest

In a major push to make Delhi a global cultural hub, the Delhi Government has proposed hosting an International Film Festival this year, allocating Rs 30 crore for the initiative. Along with this, an Annual Winter Festival and a Talent Hunt Scheme have also been announced, with a total Budget of Rs 139 crore earmarked for various art, culture, and language-related programmes.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, while presenting the Budget on Tuesday, said: “Delhi has all necessary facilities and venues to host an international-level film festival. This initiative will not only culturally enrich the city but also boost tourism and position Delhi as a film hub.”

Highlighting Delhi’s rich cultural heritage, CM Gupta described the Capital as a “living confluence of centuries of history, art and traditions,” citing iconic landmarks like the Red Fort, India Gate and Akshardham as testaments to its vibrant past.

To further promote arts and tourism, the government has announced an annual winter festival featuring cultural performances, food festivals and musical concerts to celebrate Delhi’s artistic diversity.

Additionally, a new “talent hunt scheme” will be launched with an outlay of Rs 5 crore, aiming to identify and nurture artistes across various disciplines, including music, dance, visual arts and performing arts. The scheme will focus on students, young professionals and self-taught artistes, offering them a platform to showcase their creativity.