Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha declared that more than 350 films and web series have been produced in the picturesque backdrops of Jammu and Kashmir in the last five years.
Addressing the inauguration of the 'Tawi Filmotsva', a short film festival for local talent promotion, Sinha reiterated that peace is the basis of the development of the region.
He pointed out that ever since the new film policy was launched in 2021, Jammu and Kashmir has emerged as a more desirable destination for filmmakers. "In the past five years, particularly after the new film policy was drafted in 2021, more than 350 films and web series have been produced here. Peace brings overall development, and such initiatives are part of that development," Sinha added.
The Lieutenant Governor said he was proud of watching Jammu and Kashmir regain its position in the world of filmmaking. "Our peace and development initiatives over the past five years have ensured that J&K has become a more attractive destination for Hindi, regional, and international film shoots," he said.
He also spoke about adjusting to the changing film industry and stated that the new film policy was meant to keep up with the times. Sinha was keen to note that cinema could be a significant tool for learning and social revolution, calling for local talent to utilize this as a responsible force. "I want our local talent to take a balance of entertainment and social responsibility and make use of the medium for social good and change," he stated.
Technological innovations, he added, have opened up avenues for local filmmakers, actors, and cinema experts to present Jammu and Kashmir's rich cultural heritage. Sinha praised the effort of the 'Tawi Filmotsva', which he termed as a big step towards encouraging local films and talent.
The Lieutenant Governor also called on filmmakers and artists in the region to use their creativity to address social issues and inspire positive change. "Creativity not only fulfills personal dreams, but it can also drive social change. I’ve seen how various creative forms impact society, but cinema’s influence in raising awareness about social issues is unparalleled," Sinha stated.
He also encouraged the youth to use their creative skills to fight social ills, including drug abuse, and become assets to society. "I desire our youth to assist in the elimination of social evils and aid the government in reaching out to the needy so that they may live in dignity," he concluded.
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