Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma Releases Draft Film Tourism & Creative Media Policy
First Published: 3rd June, 2025 22:20 IST
Meghalaya: The event also saw the launch of the Tourism Buddy Programme and a flag-off ceremony for the Hello Meghalaya Road Show
In a bold stride to transform Meghalaya into a cinematic powerhouse, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Tuesday unveiled the draft Meghalaya Film Tourism & Creative Media Policy 2025, extending an open call for public engagement to shape its contours.
The event also witnessed the disbursement of grants to filmmakers, the announcement of a unique filmmaking exchange with Arunachal Pradesh, and the official handover of Ward’s Lake from the Department of Forest to the Department of Tourism. The event also saw the launch of the Tourism Buddy Programme and a flag-off ceremony for the Hello Meghalaya Road Show a traveling celebration of local storytelling and artistic expression.
The government’s vision for the policy is ambitious and forward-looking, aiming to establish Meghalaya as a ready-to-shoot destination that appeals to national and international filmmakers alike. Emphasis is being placed on building a complete ecosystem—from skilled local talent and trained technical crews to high-end production equipment and streamlined infrastructure. The objective is to make Meghalaya film-ready not just in scenic value, but in production capability and professional support.
Beyond attracting outside productions, the policy takes a grassroots approach, focusing on nurturing homegrown filmmakers and providing a sustainable platform for their growth. Financial incentives, institutional support, and creative collaborations are at the core of this framework. The government has proposed up to 35–40 percent funding support for individuals looking to establish movie theatres under the CM Elevate programme, and is actively exploring mobile cinema models to increase access across remote locations.
One of the standout proposals under discussion is the establishment of a dedicated film institute in Meghalaya—envisioned as a training and incubation centre for aspiring filmmakers and technicians. The proposed institute, which could take shape as the Meghalaya Film Institute or Shillong Film Institute, is expected to position the state as a creative education hub, inviting talent from across the country while retaining local ingenuity.
The launch event in Shillong doubled as a celebration of cinematic excellence, honouring national award-winning filmmaker Pradip Kurbah whose latest Khasi-language film Ha Lyngkha Bneng has captured international attention. The film’s first look was revealed to enthusiastic applause, and Kurbah, along with acclaimed filmmaker Dominic Sangma, was felicitated for his contribution to regional cinema.
Adding a strong incentive layer to the policy rollout, the government also announced the ‘Hello Meghalaya Grants’—financial packages ranging from ₹5 lakhs to ₹35 lakhs aimed at supporting both seasoned and emerging storytellers. These grants reinforce the administration’s focus on empowering local voices and ensuring that creative expression receives not just recognition but real investment.
With the draft policy now open for feedback, the state is actively inviting filmmakers, citizens, and creative professionals to contribute their insights. The approach underscores a model of participatory governance—where shaping Meghalaya’s film future is not a top-down directive but a collaborative mission.
As Meghalaya opens its doors to the world of cinema with clarity, intent, and inclusivity, it sets the stage for a powerful new narrative—one where the hills are not just scenic backdrops but vibrant centres of storytelling, creation, and cultural transformation.
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