IFFJK frames a policy road map to build a sustainable film ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir

# What happened The second day of the first International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK-2026) hosted a policy dialogue titled "How the J&K Film Policy, Single-Window Clearances, and Incentives Can Build a Sustainable Local Cinematic Ecosystem." The panel was moderated by film critic and journalist Mayank Shekhar. Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and Commissioner Secretary, Information R. Alice Vaz were among the principal speakers.

Atal Dulloo focused on enabling local talent and reducing procedural barriers. He said J&K has historical ties to Indian cinema and should renew connections by channeling youth creativity into filmmaking and related professions. Dulloo proposed scholarships for students to study filmmaking at national institutions and partnerships to provide specialised courses within J&K. He also flagged the Skill Development Mission as a vehicle for delivering training in filmmaking skills.

R. Alice Vaz outlined the J&K Film Policy and its incentives. The policy targets both external productions and regional filmmakers. It includes additional benefits for films that shoot more than 50% in J&K and incentives designed to encourage hiring of local artists and crew. Vaz described these measures as intended to generate employment, reward local participation, and raise the region's cinematic visibility for tourism.

# Practical measures on the table

• Simplify and strengthen the Single Window Clearance System to reduce delays for shoots and production activities.
• Use the proposed Ease of Doing Business Bill to deregulate processes that affect film production and investment.
• Provide scholarships and facilitate institutional partnerships to develop film education locally.
• Leverage the Skill Development Mission to run vocational and technical courses tied to film production.

# Why these measures matter for J&K Policy incentives and simplified clearances are positioned to serve two practical goals: increase the number and scale of productions in the territory, and develop a local workforce that can sustain production activity. Officials linked increased cinematic activity to employment opportunities and tourism promotion, arguing that visible film projects can drive destination interest and local economic activity.

# Points to watch going forward The dialogue focused on planning and intention rather than announced timelines or budget specifics. Key next steps signalled by officials include strengthening the single-window process, introducing or adapting the Ease of Doing Business Bill to industry needs, and initiating training and scholarship programs in collaboration with national institutions.

# Bottom line IFFJK's policy session gathered government and cultural stakeholders to convert the festival platform into an actionable agenda: reduce red tape, invest in human capital, and use targeted incentives to attract productions while growing local filmmaking capacity. The framework aims to link film production with tourism and jobs, with execution hinging on regulatory simplification and delivery of education and training initiatives.