India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced an increase in the national production incentive from 30% to 40% rebate on eligible expenses, with a maximum value of $3.6 million (Rs 300 million).
Additionally, a 5% bonus will be given for films with significant Indian content. To be eligible for the increased incentive, international productions must first obtain shooting permission from the I&B Ministry from April 1 this year. Documentary films must also obtain approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Indian I&B Minister Anurag Thakur announced the news at the opening ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
Thakur said the changes were aimed at attracting more mid- and high-budget international film projects to India and were also in line with the government’s broader goal of ensuring “ease of doing business in India”.
“This paradigm shift in encouraging film production is a testament to India’s commitment and support for artistic expression and strengthens our position as a preferred destination for film ventures,” Thakur said.
The incentive program is managed by the Film Facilitation Office (FFO) under the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC). Productions applying for the bonus will be assessed by the Special Incentive Assessment Committee, and payment will be made in two stages – Provisional and Final. The final application for disbursement of funds can be submitted after the completion of the project in India.
India’s producer incentive program was first announced at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival. The incentive cap was earlier set at $3 million (Rs 250 million), making it more suitable for smaller budget productions.
The IFFI opening ceremony took place on November 20, during which the opening film titled Catching dust directed by Stuart Gatt and will run until November 28.
