An industry insider said, “The scheme aligns with the WIF’s goal. If implemented, the scheme could work on multiple fronts: dedicated production grants for first-time filmmakers, incentives for studios that onboard women and Dalit directors, and commitments from public sector broadcasters or state-backed streaming platforms to showcase the films.”

Adoor Gopalakrishnan criticised certain aspects of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation’s initiative. Pic/AFP, Instagram

Dimpy Agrawal, who was a part of the WIF India cohort at Cannes, said that Indian filmmaking could benefit with such a policy in place. ”We need institutional structures to help create a robust community of creative people. At this point, the I&B Ministry is doing a lot to connect Indian cinema with top-tier international festivals. Any sort of push from them is welcome, be it in terms of capital or exposure.”