SHILLONG: The Meg-halaya Film Makers Association (MefilMA) celebrated its 7th Foundation Day at U Soso Tham Auditorium on Saturday.
Speaking at the event as chief guest, AL Hek, MLA of Pynthorumkhrah constituency and chairman MIDC said that the film makers in the State are struggling.
Hek said, “When I was IPR Minister, Commander Shangpliang, president, MefilMA used to come and knock at my door to promote film making in Meghalaya. I tried my level best then, but there is limitation.”
Hek advised the film producers to have self confidence and to carry on with the tasks.He said Bollywood films are screened not only in India, but outside as well. The MLA further said that a good movie will always attract viewers.
Regarding the financial assistance to Bollywood film of Rs 2 crore, he said “If the same amount is given to Meghalaya film industry then they could create a studio.”
Dr. Jemino Mawthoh, guest of honour, appreciated the commitment of film makers despite the hurdles they face.
Expressing concern over unemployment, he said “Meghalaya’s unemployment is a making the lives of youth very difficult.” There is so much of potential in the State in terms of talent, however, opportunities must be created and MefilMA is executing that. Shangpliang, while speaking on the occasion said “In the past seven years, we have submitted numerous memorandum and representation to the government pertaining to film making. We are thankful to the government for having recognised film making in the State as industry, although the notification do not meet the requirement of the local film makers.”
The president said that the film makers need a comprehensive policy with a vision for promotion of film making. “We have submitted our written request, we urge upon the government to officially notify constitution of the committee so as to expedite formulating the Meghalaya film policy,” he added.
Shangpliang also expressed his appreciation to the Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, who while delivering his speech as chief guest during the Indian Panorama film festival last year, declared that the government would construct cinema hall for screening of local films, adding, “We are hopeful and are very sure that theatres will be coming up very soon.”
