Maharashtra Rolls Out Red Carpet For Cinema Act Amendments to Boost Biz

In a significant move aimed at boosting Maharashtra’s film industry and simplifying operational procedures, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar announced plans to amend the Maharashtra Cinema Act to align with the Ease of Doing Business framework. This initiative intends to modernize and streamline regulations governing cinema halls across the state, facilitating investments and growth in the entertainment sector.

 

Key Highlights From The Announcement

 

The state government has directed the Cultural Affairs department to formulate a proposal seeking Central Government approval for amending the Maharashtra Cinema Act.

 

This amendment aims at replacing outdated licensing and regulatory norms affecting cinema halls, upgrading their safety standards, and introducing progressive policies in sync with the evolving cinema business environment.

 

Minister Shelar affirmed the government’s commitment to addressing demands raised by the Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India, including licensing reforms, permission for alternate commercial uses of cinema premises, a single-window clearance system, construction permits rationalization, service charge regulation, and property redevelopment policies.

 

Special focus will be laid on revising entertainment tax regulations and tailoring rules for single-screen cinemas, many of which face challenges amid competition from multiplex formats.

 

The government plans comprehensive reforms that will facilitate ease of doing business, attract investments, promote films (especially regional cinema), and protect the cultural heritage associated with traditional cinema halls.

 

All related governmental departments have been instructed to expedite actions associated with these reforms.

 

Meeting With Industry Representatives And Officials

 

The announcement was made during a high-level meeting held at Mumbai’s Mantralaya office, convened to deliberate issues faced by cinema hall owners and exhibitors. Besides Minister Shelar, the meeting included MLAs Dr Parinay Phuke, Raju Tosam, and Umesh Yavalakar; Cultural Affairs Secretary Dr Kiran Kulkarni; Film City Managing Director Swati Mhase Patil; Seniors of the Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association headed by President Tejas Karandikar; and representatives from various government departments.

 

Addressing The Concerns Of Cinema Stakeholders

 

Industry participants highlighted the bottlenecks in licensing procedures requiring multiple approvals, outdated safety and facility standards, difficulty in repurposing cinema spaces commercially, and challenges faced by single-screen cinemas in sustaining operations. They also discussed the need for government schemes to promote films and concerted efforts to modernize this sector, which plays a vital role in Maharashtra’s cultural and economic landscape.

 

Streamlining Regulations For Future Growth

 

The proposed amendments seek to introduce a single-window clearance system for licenses and construction permits to reduce bureaucratic delays. Updates to entertainment tax regulations are also planned to make them more industry-friendly. These changes are expected to enable easier property redevelopment, enhanced service charge frameworks, and support schemes promoting film production and exhibition.

 

Supporting Marathi And Regional Cinema

 

Beyond commercial considerations, the government looks to preserve and revive single-screen cinemas that have historically championed Marathi and other regional films. These theatres often struggle to compete with multiplexes and digital platforms but remain vital for cultural preservation and audience outreach.

 

Enhancing Safety And Facility Standards

 

The reforms will also focus on upgrading hygiene, fire safety, and structural integrity within cinema halls, reflecting global best practices while balancing cost. This will ensure improved audience comfort and confidence, driving footfalls and revenue.

 

Looking Ahead: A New Era For Maharashtra’s Cinema Sector

 

With these amendments, Maharashtra aims to strengthen its position as a leading hub for India’s film industry, creating an attractive ecosystem for cinema owners, producers, and exhibitors. The move is expected to support economic revival post-pandemic and enhance the state’s cultural fabric.

 

Sources: Indian Express, Times of India, Free Press Journal