New Delhi – In a significant move to revitalize India’s cinematic sector, the central government has established a high-level study group tasked with formulating a comprehensive roadmap for the growth and modernization of the domestic film industry. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced on Tuesday that renowned lyricist, screenwriter, and advertising veteran Prasoon Joshi will lead the newly constituted panel.
The formation of this study group signals the government’s recognition of the film industry’s immense economic potential and its cultural influence. The move comes amid ongoing challenges faced by the sector, including evolving audience preferences, global competition from international content platforms, and the need for infrastructural upgrades.
Mandate and Objectives
The primary objective of the study group is to conduct a thorough review of the existing policy framework governing the Indian film ecosystem. According to an official statement from the Ministry, the panel will assess current regulatory bottlenecks, film financing mechanisms, and the need for skill development across production, post-production, and distribution channels.
“The group will examine the entire value chain of the film industry, from script development to theatrical exhibition and digital streaming. The goal is to identify actionable measures that enhance ease of doing business, attract investment, and promote the global outreach of Indian cinema,” a senior ministry official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Beyond commercial viability, the study group is expected to deliberate on content standards, piracy prevention, and the promotion of regional language films, ensuring that the benefits of any new policy reach all corners of the country’s diverse cinematic landscape.
Prasoon Joshi: A Familiar Voice
The selection of Prasoon Joshi as the chairperson has been widely noted within cinematic circles. Joshi, who currently serves as the Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), brings a unique blend of creative expertise and regulatory experience to the role. His career spans decades, including Academy Award-nominated work for the film Taare Zameen Par and iconic advertising campaigns for national brands.
“Prasoon Joshi understands both the artistic soul and the commercial reality of the film business. He has navigated the intersection of creativity and policy, which makes him an ideal choice to lead a reform-oriented discussion,” noted industry analyst Sunil Kapoor.
Joshi himself expressed a sense of responsibility, stating, “Indian cinema is not just an entertainment industry; it is a soft power asset and a reflection of our society. The study group will work with humility and thoroughness to strengthen its foundation for the next generation.”
Implications for the Sector
The announcement arrives at a critical juncture. The Indian film industry, valued at over ₹18,000 crore, has been navigating a post-pandemic recovery phase. While theatrical footfalls have rebounded in certain segments, smaller-budget and independent films continue to struggle for viable distribution. Additionally, the rapid expansion of Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms has reshaped consumer behavior, demanding policy responses that balance digital growth with traditional exhibition.
Stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, viewing it as a potential precursor to a long-awaited National Film Policy. Industry bodies have long urged the government to treat cinema as an organized industrial sector, granting it infrastructure status to unlock easier credit and insurance frameworks.
“This study group could be the first step toward a unified national strategy that addresses the fragmentation of the current system. A clear policy can attract private equity, encourage co-productions, and streamline tax structures,” said film producer and FICCI media committee member Ananya Rajan.
Conclusion
As the study group begins its consultations, the expectation is clear: the panel must deliver pragmatic, forward-looking recommendations that bolster the industry’s global competitiveness while preserving its creative integrity. With Prasoon Joshi at the helm, the government has signaled its intent to pursue thoughtful, expert-led reform. The final report, expected within six months, will be closely watched by filmmakers, studio heads, and policymakers alike, as the nation awaits a new chapter for its cherished film industry.