Kashmir Impulse Desk
Srinagar, Sep 10
Jammu and Kashmir can once again become a major destination for filmmakers from India and abroad, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L Murugan said on Thursday.
Speaking at the first International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir, Murugan said the region’s landscapes and cinematic legacy gave it the potential to regain its place as a preferred filming destination.
He said the festival was aligned with the government’s effort to encourage filmmakers to shoot and produce films in Kashmir.
Murugan also highlighted India’s expanding media and digital-content sector, including government initiatives such as the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit and programmes aimed at supporting creators and film production.
He said developing industry-ready skills among young people was essential to expanding the creative economy and noted growing participation by J&K youth in filmmaking, scriptwriting and digital storytelling.
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Secretary Chanchal Kumar said the region’s landscapes, literature, music and traditions could support the development of a wider creative industry.
He said greater links between local talent and filmmakers, producers, mentors and audiences could strengthen J&K’s position in the sector.
Kumar also pointed to initiatives including the Create Indian Challenge and WAVES Bazaar, which provide platforms for young creators to develop skills and connect with industry, investors and collaborators.
He encouraged young people from Kashmir to explore opportunities at the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies in Mumbai and said professional productions involving local trainees and crew could provide valuable practical experience.
