By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The Nitish Cabinet approved the Bihar Film Promotion Policy in its meeting on Friday, bringing new hope for the artists and filmmakers of Bihar. Under this policy, a provision has been made to give subsidies on shooting films in Bihar.
After getting the green signal from the Nitish Cabinet, State Art and Culture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha detailed the Bihar Film Promotion Policy-2024. The state government will provide a subsidy on 75 percent of the shooting of films in the state.
Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha announced that under this policy, filmmakers will receive a grant of 25 percent from the Bihar government for the official filming of films with a budget of Rs 4 crore in the state, the highest in the country.
A grant of 50 percent will be given for regional films in languages such as Bhojpuri, Maithili, Magahi, Angika, and Bajjika produced in Bihar, while the grant limit for films produced in Hindi and English is set at 25 percent. Additionally, feature films with more than 75% shooting days in the state will be prominently screened, with such films receiving Rs 50 lakh from the Film Facilitation Cell in each category.
Minister Sinha expressed his happiness, noting that for a long time, there was a demand for films based on Bihar to be shot in the state. This policy will not only promote the development of Bihar but also benefit local artists.
Apart from films, the Bihar Film Promotion Policy will also provide grants for documentaries, TV serials, and web series. A single window system will be created to streamline the process of film production and grant payment, making it smooth and transparent.
Bihar has significantly contributed to cinema, being a site for Bollywood and regional films. Many writers, actors, and directors from Bihar have made their mark in the industry. This policy aims to boost the state’s economy, employment, and tourism.
Minister Sinha stated, “The objective of the Bihar Film Promotion Policy is to develop Bihar as an important center for film production. This policy will increase private investment and spread information about the mythological, cultural heritage, and rich traditions of the state through films. It will also give a new identity to the beautiful, historical, and charming tourist places of our state at the national and international levels.”
Following the approval of the Bihar Film Promotion Policy, there is widespread happiness among the people associated with films in Bihar. Producers and artists believe that this policy will not only boost local talent but also change the negative perception of Bihar as films are shot in the state.
