SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday inaugurated the first International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), with more than 130 films from over 30 countries set to be screened during the four-day event.
Addressing filmmakers, artists, delegates and cinema enthusiasts at the inaugural ceremony, Abdullah said the festival marked a new chapter in Jammu and Kashmir’s association with cinema and reflected the region’s efforts to emerge as a global filmmaking destination.
He said the festival was aimed at showcasing Jammu and Kashmir as a destination for filmmakers and creative professionals while providing a platform for cultural exchange and cinematic engagement.
The Chief Minister highlighted the region’s long association with Indian cinema, recalling films such as Junglee, Kashmir Ki Kali, Aradhana and Bobby, which were shot in Jammu and Kashmir. He also referred to more recent productions, including Mission Kashmir, Haider, Rockstar, Highway and Bajrangi Bhaijaan.
Abdullah said Jammu and Kashmir’s attraction for filmmakers extended beyond its landscapes to its culture, traditions, music, crafts and heritage. He urged visiting filmmakers to engage with local communities, artisans and artists while exploring stories rooted in the region.
Highlighting the Jammu and Kashmir Film Policy, the Chief Minister said the government had introduced a single-window clearance mechanism to facilitate film shooting and provide a streamlined process for permissions and coordination.
He said the policy offers financial incentives and production subsidies linked to shooting days and local expenditure and encourages the employment of local artists, technicians and crew members.
The government, he added, also plans to develop post-production facilities, film studios, equipment banks and film education institutions to strengthen the region’s film ecosystem.
Describing cinema as an industry capable of generating employment and nurturing talent, Abdullah said the festival would provide young people in Jammu and Kashmir an opportunity to interact with filmmakers and industry professionals from across the world.
He encouraged delegates to promote Jammu and Kashmir as a filmmaking destination and invited production houses to explore opportunities in the region.
The festival will feature film screenings, masterclasses, panel discussions and interactions with filmmakers over the next four days.
Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Dr Jitendra Singh, former Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah, members of the Council of Ministers, legislators, filmmakers, jury members and other guests attended the inaugural ceremony.
