Ministry Considering To Provide Infrastructure Status To M&E Industry: Amit Khare

Single structure model to benefit industry as regulation must be based on content and not technology

Mr Amit Khare, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting yesterday said that the ministry is fully supportive and considering to provide infrastructure status to the media and entertainment industry. He requested FICCI to come forward and work with the department in drawing up the exact definition for the sector. “The government will act as a facilitator and educator for the media and entertainment industry by providing more freedom to the sector to ensure effective results,” he added.

Addressing a session ‘Shaping the Future of M&E in Today’s Digitalized and Information Driven Economy’, organized during FICCI FRAMES 2020, Mr Khare said, “From the Spartan world of traditional movie marketing, we have now entered a rather sophisticated universe of digital movie making. While looking at different digital mediums is important, one should not forego the importance of personal touch, as the entertainment industry plays on human emotions.” He added, “Convergence and coordination of various ministries is mandatory for the smooth functioning of the entertainment industry.”

Speaking on the regulatory reforms for the media and entertainment industry, Mr Khare said, “There will always be a gap between regulation and technology, but a single structure model will benefit the industry as regulation must be based on the content and not on technology.”

Mr Shekhar Kapur, Film Director, Actor, and Producer said, “Technology is moving faster than it can be managed and regulated. Today, the audience can watch films on several devices including mobile phones and a storyteller needs various technologies and platforms to connect with their audience at a particular time.” He added, “Digital platform enables filmmakers to take their content to a wide range of audience.”

Mr Ajit Mohan, Vice President, and MD, Facebook India said, “Creative vehicles are now mass vehicles serving one and all. They provide the foundation to light up multiple sectors.”

Mr Karan Bedi, CEO, MX Player said, “The structural construct of content consumption has changed completely which has opened a new set of audience. The key is to identify and recognize these structures.”

Mr Punit Misra, CEO, Domestic Broadcasting – Zee Entertainment said, “There is an explosion of content creation as well as consumption in the digital medium but the challenge is to get the right kind of talent for the sector.” FICCI