Insiders hope industry prospers post government's proposed fund for films, healthcare

The Pakistani government's recent allocation of a $7 million (PKR2 billion) fund to finance films has been welcomed by industry insiders, reports Arab News. These insiders believe it will contribute to the growth of the country's cinema. Additionally, an additional $3.5 million (PKR1 billion) has been designated for health insurance coverage for artists in Pakistan. This significant initiative was included in the federal budget for the fiscal year 2023-24.

Marriyum Aurangzeb, Pakistan's Information and Broadcasting Minister, made the announcement, emphasizing that the fund would play a "major role" in the development of the Pakistani film industry. Prior to the announcement, the minister held separate meetings with industry stakeholders to gather feedback and discuss steps for the improvement of Pakistani cinema.

Industry experts have lauded the government's initiative, considering it a substantial incentive for filmmakers to come forward and create films. Speaking to the news portal, Nadeem Mandviwala, owner of Atrium Cinemas, praised the government's efforts and expressed confidence in the positive long-term impact it would have on the industry.

“It’s a huge incentive for filmmakers to come forward and make films," he stated. "It is brilliant what the government has done. It will have great results, if implemented, and will benefit the industry in the long run. At this moment, the government, particularly Marriyum, is trying their best to implement it in the essence and the spirit of the idea. She took a personal interest in it.”

The idea of formulating a policy to support the film industry originated in 2018 during the tenure of former prime minister Imran Khan, but it had not materialised until now. The situation for cinemas worsened with the imposition of a ban on Indian films in 2019, followed by significant losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to the film financing fund, industry representatives proposed the creation of a portal for comprehensive health insurance coverage for all artists and technicians, eliminating the need for individual requests for treatment. The government, in this case, would cover the expenses rather than providing funds for treatment.

Renowned Pakistani director Nadeem Beyg highlighted the challenging times currently faced by local cinema. He expressed optimism that the industry's condition would improve with better facilities, artist insurance, and the importation of films. “If the country takes the right turn, it will improve the condition of the film industry too," said the filmmaker. "With better facilities, insurance of artists and import of films, the situation will get better...At this point, it’s more important to keep film culture alive. We need [to make] more films. There is no big Hollywood film coming out to keep local cinemas running after August 2023."

Sheikh Amjad Rashid, Chairman of Distribution Club (Pvt) Ltd, met with the Information Minister to discuss future plans for promoting the Pakistani film industry. Rashid revealed that a film council would be established once the fund received approval in the budget, which would serve as a significant incentive and have a substantial impact on the industry. He also expressed the intention to support young filmmakers, especially those who have studied film abroad and wish to contribute to the industry.

Rashid further requested incentives for cinemas, such as reduced duties and favourable electricity rates, as the growth of cinemas would directly contribute to the growth of the overall industry. He told the publication, "A film council will be made once the fund is approved in the budget. It will be a big incentive and will have a big impact on the industry...We aim to promote young filmmakers, particularly those who have studied film from abroad, if they want to make something.”

While the initiative has received widespread appreciation, some concerns have been raised by actors and scriptwriters like Yasir Hussain. The actor questioned how the fund would be distributed and whether young and emerging directors would have equal opportunities to access the funds for their film projects. He said, "Is there a committee or directors’ guild that will distribute the money or will this money go to Syed Noor or old directors? Or will young, emerging directors like myself will also get an opportunity to make films with this money?”

The Pakistani film industry eagerly anticipates the implementation of the allocated funds, hopeful that it will invigorate and support local filmmakers while contributing to the revival and growth of the cinema culture in Pakistan.

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