The Delhi government has announced ambitious plans to turn the national capital into a major film hub. A comprehensive film policy is being developed to position Delhi as an international shooting destination. As part of this initiative, applications for film shooting will soon be processed through a single-window clearance system, making it easier for filmmakers to secure permissions without unnecessary delays.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta revealed the details of this plan during the closing ceremony of the Celebrating India Film Festival (CIFF) on Sunday. She emphasized that conceptualizing and executing such a grand event is no easy task, but it reflects the city’s readiness to emerge as a center for film production and cultural creativity.

A Vision for Delhi as a Global Shooting Destination

According to CM Gupta, the government aims to promote Delhi at an international level as a prime shooting location. This effort will be supported by the new Delhi Film Policy, which is designed to encourage both domestic and foreign filmmakers to consider the city for their projects. To facilitate this, the government has earmarked a budget of ₹3 crore specifically for initiatives that will boost film production within Delhi.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the policy will attract a significant number of applications for film shoots in the capital. The upcoming single-window clearance system will streamline the approval process, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and giving filmmakers the confidence to choose Delhi as their preferred location. She also highlighted that this policy will help rebrand Delhi—not just as a city known for politics and history, but as a vibrant destination celebrated for its culture, creativity, and cinematic appeal.

Recognizing Delhi’s Cultural and Artistic Legacy

Gupta acknowledged the presence of the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi, an institution that has produced numerous acclaimed actors who have earned recognition both in India and abroad. Despite this rich talent pool and cultural heritage, she noted that there has been little serious effort in the past to develop Delhi as a hub for the film industry. The new policy aims to fill this gap by providing filmmakers with the infrastructure, permissions, and incentives they need to produce high-quality films in the city.

Hosting an International Film Festival in Delhi

One of the major highlights of the initiative is the announcement of an international film festival to be hosted in Delhi. The government has allocated a budget of ₹30 crore for this event, which is expected to become a prestigious platform for showcasing diverse films and documentaries from around the world. This festival will not only promote Delhi’s cultural and artistic diversity but will also serve as a networking opportunity for filmmakers, producers, and artists from across the globe.

The international film festival will feature films on a variety of themes, giving audiences the chance to experience cinematic storytelling from different cultures and perspectives. It will also provide a platform for emerging filmmakers to present their work to an international audience, further strengthening Delhi’s position on the global cinematic map.

Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth

By transforming Delhi into a sought-after film location, the government expects to stimulate tourism and generate economic growth. Film shoots often bring significant business to local industries, including hospitality, transport, catering, and set design. The presence of international crews and artists will also help promote Delhi as a cosmopolitan city that welcomes diverse cultures and creative expression.

A Step Towards a Creative Economy

The upcoming Delhi Film Policy is part of a broader strategy to foster a creative economy in the capital. By encouraging film and media production, the government aims to create jobs for actors, technicians, designers, and other professionals in the entertainment sector. This move aligns with global trends where cities have leveraged the film industry to boost cultural branding and economic development.

With dedicated budgets for both infrastructure support and high-profile events, the policy reflects a long-term vision for Delhi’s role in the global entertainment landscape. The city’s mix of modern architecture, historic landmarks, and cultural vibrancy makes it a natural fit for filmmakers seeking diverse shooting locations within a single urban setting.

The Delhi government’s plan to turn the capital into a film industry hub marks a significant cultural and economic shift for the city. Through the introduction of a film-friendly policy, investment in infrastructure, and the hosting of an international film festival, Delhi is positioning itself to compete with established global shooting destinations.

If implemented effectively, these measures could transform the perception of Delhi from being primarily a political and historical center to becoming a thriving capital of culture, creativity, and cinema. The coming years will determine how successfully the city can translate this vision into a sustainable, internationally recognized film industry presence.