Breaking News: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Announces Game-Changing Initiatives for Cinema Industry
In a big step to support Karnataka’s cinema industry, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah revealed a series of groundbreaking initiatives during his 16th state budget announcement. The key highlights include capping theatre ticket prices at Rs 200, launching an exclusive OTT platform for Kannada films, and establishing a Film City in Mysuru to boost the state’s entertainment sector.
Capping Ticket Prices and Promoting Accessibility
Siddaramaiah’s decision to cap ticket prices at Rs 200 for all theatres, including multiplexes, aims to make cinema more affordable and accessible to a larger audience. This move is set to revolutionize the movie-going experience in Karnataka and attract more viewers to theatres.
Exclusive OTT Platform for Kannada Films
Recognizing the need for a platform to promote Kannada content, the Chief Minister announced the launch of a dedicated OTT platform for Kannada films. This initiative will provide a much-needed boost to the local film industry and address the concerns raised by prominent actors and producers regarding the lack of mainstream OTT platforms for Kannada content.
Preserving Kannada Films and Industry Recognition
The state government has allocated Rs 3 crore to create a repository for preserving Kannada films in both digital and non-digital formats. In addition, the cinema sector will now be officially recognized as an industry, allowing it to benefit from the facilities and incentives under Karnataka’s Industrial Policy. This recognition is expected to fuel the growth and development of the state’s movie production and distribution ecosystem.
State-of-the-Art Facilities for Film Production
To further strengthen Karnataka’s position as a film production hub, plans are underway to build a state-of-the-art multiplex complex at the Karnataka Film Academy’s land in Bengaluru. A massive Rs 500 crore project will also see the development of an international-level Film City in Mysuru, with 150 acres of land already allocated for the project. These initiatives aim to create a thriving entertainment ecosystem in the state and boost the local film industry.
These initiatives underscore Karnataka’s commitment to nurturing its cinema industry, enhancing access to films, and building a sustainable and vibrant entertainment sector in the state.
(Inputs from PTI)
