Haryana to Build Two Mumbai-Style Film Cities; Jobs Boom Expected in Pinjore and Gurugram

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has announced plans to develop two modern film cities in Haryana, with the aim of making it an attractive destination for filmmakers of Hollywood, Bollywood, and other foreign filmmaking centers. The ambitious project promises to open up thousands of job opportunities while positioning Haryana as a major hub in film production. 

Panchkula Film City Takes Shape 

The first film city will come up on approximately 100 acres of land in Pinjore, Panchkula district. While the site has been identified, the government has also allocated Rs 200 crore for this venture. The administration is in the process of appointing consultants for the first phase of development.

The facility will have infrastructure on par with any established film city in the country, including sound stages, post-production facilities, and accommodation for cast and crew. It will be strategically located near Chandigarh to ensure connectivity and scenic backdrops for varied filming requirements.

Gurugram Gets Second Film City 

Identifying the suitable land in Gurugram, the government would develop the second film city in the second phase of development. The proximity of Gurugram to Delhi, with existing infrastructure, provides ideal location advantages for attracting both domestic and international production houses. 

The strategy of having twin film cities alleviates pressure on any single location while offering filmmakers diverse shooting environments and facilities. This is emulated from successful models in other Indian states that have benefited economically from film industry infrastructure. 

Educational Infrastructure Development

Chief Minister Saini said that Dada Lakhmi Chand State University of Performing and Visual Arts (SUPVA) will be assigned the task to start film-making courses in all state universities. The move is aimed at addressing the pressing need for professionals skilled in various facets of filmmaking, including direction, cinematography, editing, and sound design.

SUPVA will also collaborate with the Education Department for the promotion of theatre education at the school level, creating a pipeline of talent interested in performing arts from an early age. This grassroots approach ensures sustainable development of the entertainment industry ecosystem in Haryana.

Support for Regional Cinema

Chief Minister assured the government's commitment to Haryanvi cinema and said that he would discuss with Prasar Bharati the option of broadcasting Haryanvi films on a weekly basis on Doordarshan. Such a move would give regional cinema much-needed visibility and take it to viewers whom regional films otherwise rarely reach.

Responding to demands for the revival of single-screen cinemas, Saini referred to the formation of a Film Promotion Board to encourage regional cinema by the government. This will come up with policies that make single-screen operations viable again and preserve important cultural spaces that help the local film industry thrive.

Employment and Economic Impact

The film city projects are foreseen to generate diverse employment opportunities across skill levels, from highly specialized technical positions to support staff roles. Related industries such as hospitality, transportation, catering, and retail will also see increased activity in conjunction with these facilities.

It is also part of the larger economic development plan of Haryana, providing jobs within the state and discouraging any migration elsewhere to look for jobs within the industry.