The Maharashtra government has initiated a major policy push to strengthen the state’s film industry, with Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar announcing the formation of a three-member expert committee to study incentive models for filmmakers and production houses. The panel has been asked to examine subsidies, concessions and promotional schemes offered by various Indian states as well as global film hubs. The committee will submit its report within three months, which is expected to form the basis of a new industry-friendly policy for Maharashtra. Industry seeks easier filmmaking environment The announcement came during a meeting chaired by Shelar at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai with representatives of leading Hindi film production houses and industry bodies. Discussions focused on the hurdles faced during film production in Mumbai and Maharashtra, especially permissions, shooting infrastructure and policy-level reforms needed to attract more filmmakers. Representatives from major production companies including T-Series, Red Chillies Entertainment, Dharma Productions, Junglee Pictures and Producers Guild of India attended the meeting along with officials from Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari. New shooting destinations in focus Shelar said ongoing infrastructure projects across Mumbai and Maharashtra have temporarily restricted access to some popular shooting locations. However, he added that several new destinations would emerge once these projects are completed. The government is now focusing on developing fresh shooting hubs across the state. In Kolhapur, two to three new shooting destinations, including a railway station setup, are being planned. Land acquisition has also been completed for proposed Film Cities in Ramtek near Nagpur and in Nashik. Hybrid model for Film City development The minister said efforts are underway to modernise the iconic ND Studio with government support. Since earlier tenders for Film City development did not receive the expected response, the state is now exploring a hybrid model involving private participation. To simplify the filmmaking process, the government is also developing a single-window clearance system that aims to bring all permissions online. Skill development push Alongside infrastructure expansion, short-term FTII courses have been launched at Film City to strengthen skill development in the media and entertainment sector. Shelar also said more than 100 acres of land received from the Centre in Malad West will be developed and connected to the Coastal Road and Sea Link network.
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