SIFF roundtable focuses on making Sikkim a film-friendly destination

GANGTOK, (IPR): The third day of the Sikkim International Film Festivalfeatured a roundtable conference on “strengthening media and entertainment sector” in the State. The session was held at Chintan Bhawan and brought together key stakeholders from the government, industry experts, and regional filmmakers.

State Information and Public Relations secretary Annapurna Alley, in her welcome address, emphasised the need to strengthen the foundational framework of filmmaking in the State. She underscored the importance of treating filmmaking as an infrastructural project, with robust policy support serving as a key building block. Highlighting cinema as a potential economic driver, she called for making Sikkim a more film-friendly destination by streamlining institutional mechanisms, including film commissions.

She further stressed the importance of investing in film production, noting that the Northeast offers a naturally conducive landscape for filmmaking. Referring to earlier deliberations, she reiterated the vision of positioning the state as a co-production hub. She also highlighted the need for capacity building among the local population to better support film productions. Citing noted filmmaker Imtiaz Ali’s interest, expressed during his masterclass session, in shooting in the state, she pointed to the growing appeal of Sikkim as a filming destination. Concluding her address, she appealed to the dignitaries for enhanced market access and greater visibility for regional cinema.

Press secretary to the Chief Minister, Yougan Tamang, highlighted the growing importance of the creative economy in the state’s development trajectory. He emphasised the prioritisation of the “orange economy” as a key driver of entrepreneurship, noting its potential to generate employment and foster innovation within the creative sector. He further stated that under the visionary leadership of Chief MinisterPrem Singh Tamang, the government is actively promoting policies and initiatives aimed at nurturing creative industries and empowering local talent.

IPR chairmanAshit Raiunderscored the role of media as a crucial pillar in shaping public discourse and promoting the State’s cultural and creative identity. He emphasised the need for a collaborative approach between the government and creative stakeholders to strengthen the media ecosystem, while also highlighting the importance of leveraging emerging platforms to amplify regional voices and narratives.

Similarly, Sikkim Art, Culture and Heritage Development Board chairman Sanjay Dilpali Raihighlighted the significance of preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the State through cinema and allied creative mediums. He stressed the need to integrate traditional art and culture with contemporary storytelling practices, thereby creating unique and authentic narratives that reflect the identity of Sikkim on a global platform.

Former renowned Indian film criticRajeev Masand, who now serves as the COOof Dharma Cornerstone Artists Agency, stated that OTT platforms have witnessed significant growth in the post-COVID era. Citing acclaimed series such as “Paatal Lok” and “The Family Man”, which feature narratives from the Northeast, he highlighted the increasing opportunities for regional representation. He advocated the idea of “local goes global” by showcasing regional stories on international platforms. He further noted that streaming platforms are increasingly exploring non-mainstream subjects, describing the present moment as a critical opportunity to be leveraged. From a talent agency perspective, he added that the industry is actively seeking authentic and region-specific narratives.

Dr.TejChingtham,advisory council member, National Startup Advisory Council, emphasised the significance of storytelling as a vital tool of communication in the digital age. He pointed to the underrepresentation of the Northeastern region in mainstream narratives and stressed the need for accurate and meaningful portrayal. He further advocated for policy frameworks that run parallel to and facilitate effective storytelling.

During the interaction, prominent regional filmmakers raised constructive concerns regarding subsidies and stressed the need to prioritise the development of a self-sustaining film ecosystem. They also called for a comprehensive policy framework to support filmmakers and highlighted the importance of developing a robust film market in the coming years. Additionally, they urged the streamlining of approval processes and proposed the establishment of a single-window system to facilitate filmmaking activities in the state.

Representatives from various line departments expressed their cooperation and support in addressing the concerns raised during the session.

The conference was also attended by Culture, Drama, Music, Dance and Film Board chairman Tashi Tshering Bhutia and Ronn Joshua Bautista, Third Secretary and Vice Consul at the Embassy of the Philippines.