Signalling that the United Democratic Front (UDF) government in Kerala will be implementing the film policy formulated by the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar’s policy address on Friday said that the State’s film industry will be supported through the policy covering production incentives, co-production treaties with other countries, film-tourism development, and the promotion of Kerala as a shooting destination.

The film policy, which was recommended by the Justice K. Hema Committee, was formulated during the fag end of the LDF government’s term, following wide-ranging consultations within the film industry. It also recommends recognition of cinema as an industry and puts forward several steps to ensure gender justice as well as for the sustained growth of the industry, artistically and economically.

As per the policy address, a media city and creative industries hub will be developed to bring together film production, animation, visual effects, gaming, digital media, and content-creation industries in a single, professionally equipped campus. The animation and VFX sector, in which Kerala has significant talent but underutilised potential, will be specifically supported through skill-development programmes, industry infrastructure, and market linkages with the global content industry. Another significant announcement is the plan to expand the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) to other cities.

The government also plans to increase the State Plan Fund allocation for arts, literature and culture; protect Kerala’s invaluable heritage; and implement special schemes for traditional art forms, artist welfare, and rural libraries. Pension and health insurance will be provided to cultural workers above 60 years of age. Permanent theatres will be constructed across the State. The State’s cultural heritage will be integrated with modern digital technology to develop a digital creative economy.

Digital art museums will be set up, and a Living Museum of Kerala will be established to reflect traditional life, history, art, and culture. Heritage villages will be protected and digital archiving of Kerala’s history and cultural forms will be undertaken.