Suggests Enhancing Infrastructure and Creating a Single Window Clearance System
Port Blair, July 9: The Member of Parliament, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has emphasized on the need for two crucial elements to invigorate the film industry in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands i.e. enhancing infrastructure and streamlining administrative processes.
In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, the Member of Parliament said that Andaman & Nicobar Islands are blessed with awe-inspiring natural beauty that has attracted a few filmmakers to shoot their movies in these Islands in the past. However, when it comes to film production in A&N Islands, there are a few challenges that deter many film producers and directors who prefer neighbouring Island-Nations for shooting rather than coming to Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
He pointed out that two main reasons for their hesitation are the absence of a single window clearance system for shooting permissions and the unavailability of film production equipment and dedicated shooting locations akin to Film City in Mumbai or Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad.
He requested the Lt. Governor to consider initiating the establishment of a single window clearance system for film producers and directors who wish to shoot their films in the Islands. This streamlined process will greatly ease their entry into our region and facilitate the framing of films that showcase the beauty and allure of our islands, he added.
The MP also urged to send a high-level team to visit Film City in Mumbai and Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. “Their visit will provide valuable insights into the essential infrastructure required for film production, such as trolleys, lighting, cables, sound systems, and more. Implementing a similar infrastructure in our Islands will enable film producers to conveniently bring only their advanced cameras and a few basic equipment to shoot films in Andaman and Nicobar Islands,” he added.
He mentioned that providing such facilities will contribute to the growth of Andaman & Nicobar Islands in several significant ways:
1) First and foremost, the promotion of the film industry will generate substantial revenue for the Andaman & Nicobar Administration. Film producers often spend lakhs of Rupees on location shoots, including substantial fees paid to the concerned Administration.
2) Additionally, by offering a convenient single window system and easy access for film producers, we will attract an increasing number of filmmakers to our islands. This, in turn, will raise the international profile of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, promoting tourism and enhancing the brand image of our region.
3) Thirdly, the growth of the film industry will create numerous employment opportunities for our local youth. Historically, a few film producers who have come to Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the past had shown a preference for employing local talent in supporting roles, providing them with substantial remuneration. Moreover, this development will also generate employment for tour operators, cab owners, boat operators and various other sectors, thereby invigorating our local economy.
4) Lastly, promoting the film industry will serve as a platform to showcase the immense talent that resides in Andaman and Nicobar Islands at both national and international levels. Our region boasts a wealth of untapped potential, waiting to be discovered through the medium of cinema.