Kolkata, Aug. 27 -- From the banning of actors to feuds between technicians and directors, the problems surrounding the Bengali film and TV industry have only aggravated in the last few years. Suvendu Adhikari's BJP government in West Bengal is going the extra length to form a collaborative framework between producers, technicians, guilds and government in order to revive the industry and make Bengal an attractive destination for film and TV production.
Recently, Dr Saumitra Mohan, IAS, Secretary, Information & Cultural Affairs Department, Government of West Bengal, met representatives of producers' associations, technicians' guilds, Federation office bearers, directors, MLAs and officers of the Information & Cultural Affairs Department at Nandan. At the meeting, the representatives of the various guilds requested the government to facilitate the immediate reopening of the Federation office.
They also requested the constitution of a Working Committee with due representation from the guilds, producers and government to discuss various issues of Tollywood. Representatives of the producers proposed formulation of a comprehensive SOP governing professional conduct and production management, including timely payment of technicians, prevention of harassment, code of professional conduct and safety and welfare measures.
Guild representatives requested producers to ensure improved working conditions. Producers and guilds may enter into a mutually agreed MoU defining their respective obligations wherever necessary.
Meanwhile, releasing Bengali films is a challenge for producers and the state government is trying to explore the feasibility of screening Bengali films in suitable government-owned auditoriums. It was also discussed that the I&CA department will initiate the process of formulating a comprehensive film and shooting policy for West Bengal in consultation with all stakeholders.
The government will also work towards simplifying and streamlining the various statutory permissions required for film shooting in Bengal.
The I&CA department will organise consultations soon with all concerned departments and stakeholders to develop a single-window clearance System for film shooting by integrating permissions from various government departments through digital platforms.
Discussions were also held on extending health insurance benefits to technicians under Ayushman Bharat or any other government scheme. The government will also mull over provident funds for technicians and artistes.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.