SRINAGAR: A remarkable assembly of distinguished personalities took place in Srinagar on Monday, where the side event on ‘Film Tourism for Economic Growth and Cultural Preservation’ was addressed by Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Culture, Tourism, and the Development of the North Eastern Region. The event took place at SKICC, Srinagar, as part of the 3rd Tourism Working Group Meeting.

In his speech, Dr Jitendra Singh expressed his admiration for the youth of Kashmir, describing them as highly aspirational, sensitive, and forward-looking individuals who recognize the enormous opportunities unfolded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the people of the country. He emphasized that the 3rd Tourism Working Group Meeting, along with its accompanying side events, would create job opportunities for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. Dr Singh highlighted the growing interest of filmmakers, both from India and around the world, in the serene beauty of the new and peaceful Jammu and Kashmir, making it an attractive film destination.

“This is the best time happening in Jammu and Kashmir as such events will have multifarious enrichment for J&K,” said Dr Jitendra Singh. He further added that Kashmir, under the leadership of PM Modi, is poised to become the most profitable, cost-effective, and economically viable film destination.

In his address, G Kishan Reddy proclaimed that India would be a one-stop destination for film production, boasting beautiful locations, talented technicians, and state-of-the-art post-production facilities capable of creating breathtaking visuals with world-class sound effects. Referring to Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, he highlighted how Srinagar, with its lakeside charm, has captivated the imaginations of artists, nature lovers, and now filmmakers who seek to revive film production in Jammu and Kashmir. Shri Reddy emphasized the government’s aim to revitalize film tourism not only in Kashmir but across the entire country, as many famous national and international films have been shot in Jammu and Kashmir.

“The event is of utmost importance as it will explore the immense potential of film tourism and its contribution to our vibrant tourism industry,” stated Reddy. He also celebrated the recent historic achievements in Indian cinema; with two Oscars won this year for the ‘Naatu Naatu Song’ and the documentary ‘The Elephant Whisperers.’

The occasion saw the presence of Indian film actor, producer, and entrepreneur, K Ram Charan, who engaged in a fireside conversation with film critic and journalist Mayank Sharma. Charan expressed his enchantment with the magical beauty of Kashmir, praising its pristine landscapes and majestic mountains.

G20 Sherpa, Amitabh Kant, highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s belief in the multiplier effect of tourism as a significant job creator. He expressed his appreciation for Kashmir’s pristine beauty, declaring it as the ultimate film destination that has everything to offer to the film industry.

During the event, the Draft National Strategy for Film Tourism was unveiled, with the presence of Dr Jitendra Singh, G Kishan Reddy, K Ram Charan, Amitabh Kant, Secretary MIB Shri Apurva Chandra, and G20 chief coordinator Harsh Vardhan Shringla.

Alongside the main discussions, a panel discussion aligned with the 5th priority of the Tourism Working Group shed light on the challenges associated with country-specific enablers adopted for promoting destinations through films. The panellists emphasized the significant impact of film tourism on these destinations.

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