The Kerala government is making strides towards officially granting industry status to Malayalam cinema. The Department of Culture has initiated consultations with several key departments, including Local Self Government, Finance, and the Kerala State Electricity Board, to formulate an effective policy framework.
This initiative stems from an announcement made during the presentation of the Revised State Budget 2026-27 by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, who also oversees the Finance portfolio, on June 19, 2026. The Chief Minister highlighted that multiple discussions would be held with various departments to achieve this goal.
“As the draft framework has to consider several regulatory and licensing aspects, deliberations are progressing with various departments connected to cinema. A draft framework will be formulated based on these inputs, which will be discussed with stakeholders before proceeding further,” he stated.
Among the proposals under consideration is the implementation of a single-window clearance system for obtaining permits necessary for film shoots. This approach aims to streamline the various permits that local bodies currently provide, significantly reducing delays.
The draft framework is also expected to standardize licensing formats, thereby facilitating a smoother application process for location scouting and film production. Furthermore, it will include provisions ensuring compliance with labor regulations related to wages, working hours, and workplace safety.
Film City Project
In a related development, the Ernakulam district administration is in the midst of identifying government land for the establishment of the J.C. Daniel International Film City project, which was also outlined in the Revised Budget. This ambitious project is planned to operate under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
The authorities have requested details about available land from various departments to facilitate the creation of this one-stop destination for film shooting. The project aims to encompass a total area of approximately 25 to 30 acres.
Overall, the Budget has allocated ₹100 crore for various initiatives within the cinema sector, reflecting the government’s commitment to support and enhance the film industry in Kerala.
