Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s initiative aims to revitalize the film sector and attract investment to Punjab.
Key Takeaways:
i) Punjab’s government is investing in the film industry by establishing a Film City, Film Studio, Post-Production Lab, and Pakistan’s first Film School.
ii) An eight-member committee has been formed to provide financial assistance to film productions, including grants and incentives.
iii) This initiative is part of a broader strategy to boost the entertainment sector’s contribution to Pakistan’s GDP, currently around 0.1%.
Lahore, Pakistan – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is spearheading an effort to revitalize the province’s film industry through infrastructure development and financial support. The Chief Minister has directed authorities to establish Punjab’s first Film City, Film Studio, Post-Production Lab, and Pakistan’s first dedicated Film School within the Nawaz Sharif IT City. This initiative aims to attract investment and create employment opportunities within the entertainment sector.
To facilitate film production, CM Sharif has approved an eight-member committee tasked with providing financial assistance. Chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, the committee will review applications, evaluate projects and scripts, and determine eligibility for grants and incentives. The committee is also responsible for managing fund disbursement, setting eligibility criteria, and considering box office-related incentives. The first meeting of this committee has already taken place to implement the CM’s vision.
The Chief Minister has directed authorities to establish Punjab’s first Film City, Film Studio, Post-Production Lab, and Pakistan’s first dedicated Film School within the Nawaz Sharif IT City.
This move is expected to have a positive impact on Pakistan’s economy. According to a study by the State Bank of Pakistan, the entertainment sector’s contribution to the national GDP is only around 0.1%. By encouraging local film production and attracting foreign investment, this initiative aims to increase revenue, create employment opportunities, and promote cultural exchange.