Jharkhand Artists Demand Overhaul Of 2015 Film Policy; Statewide Campaign From November 20

The contribution of Jharkhandi cinema extends beyond entertainment, influencing the state’s social, cultural, and economic landscape. Industry representatives say that with proper governmental support, films made in regional languages could showcase Jharkhand’s linguistic and cultural identity globally while generating large-scale employment.

At a meeting of the Jharkhand Kalakar Andolan Sangharsh Samiti (JHAKAS), members noted that despite the introduction of the Jharkhand Film Policy in 2015, aimed at promoting film production and supporting local talent, regional films have seen little progress. The policy includes subsidies for film shoots in the state, incentives for local-language films, and the creation of institutions such as the Film Development Corporation.

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Speakers said that although the policy was framed to brand Jharkhand as a film-making hub and promote tourism, its benefits have not meaningfully reached local filmmakers. Organisations, including JHAKAS, have already urged Art and Culture Minister Sudivya Kumar Sonu to review the outdated policy and replace it with a new, industry-oriented framework. However, the state government has yet to issue any official statement on revising the policy.

Under the existing provisions, films produced in Jharkhand’s local languages are eligible for grants covering up to 50 per cent of production costs, while Hindi and other regional-language films may receive 25 per cent. 

Films shot more than 50 per cent in Jharkhand can receive up to Rs 1 crore in assistance, and those with over 75 per cent shooting in the state may receive up to Rs 2 crore. The policy also prioritises local artists, proposes the creation of a Film Development Corporation and a state-level Film Development Council, encourages a film city project, and aims to make filmmaking equipment available for rent.

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JHAKAS will launch a statewide campaign on November 20 to push for a revised film policy. A special meeting of filmmakers, artists, producers, and technicians from across Jharkhand will be convened to review the current policy and formulate a charter of demands. The group will submit a memorandum to Chief Minister Hemant Soren.

Artists attending Monday’s meeting included Kajal Mundu, Binod Mahli, Ranju Minj, Suraj Tirkey, Vivek Nayak, Anmol Khalkho, Purushottam Kumar, Pankaj Prajapati, Rohit RK, Vinod Jaiswal, Devpujan Thakur, Chandni Badaik, Angel Lakra, Rishikesh Lal, and others.