Maiden Shillong Int’l Film Festival has 18 curated films from NE, Bhutan and Vietnam
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 25: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma outlined the vast opportunities that the film industry offers for the youth of the state, who possess immense talent but lack the platform and ecosystem to showcase it.
He was speaking at the 1st Shillong International Film Festival, which began in Shillong on Wednesday, bringing together film personalities and students from film-making backgrounds on a single platform.
Pointing out that culture, heritage, and storytelling are integral to the state, Sangma said the film industry has space not only for actors, but for filmmakers, technicians, choreographers, designers, musicians, and even transport operators.
Stating that the government has been working towards providing a holistic platform by adopting a stakeholder approach and building a support system, he noted that nearly 50% of Meghalaya’s population is below the age of 20. He added that the challenge of providing employment and meeting the aspirations of the younger generation will grow in the years to come. “Therefore, it is important for the government to keep innovating, experimenting, and expanding opportunities,” he emphasised, highlighting initiatives such as the state-supported OTT platform, busking under the MGMP, and the state’s film policy aimed at strengthening the ecosystem.
According to Sangma, the government is also working on a proposal to establish a Film City in the state, which would provide a base for artists and filmmakers and position Shillong and Meghalaya as a destination for film-making. He added that the establishment of a Film Institute is also part of the government’s plans.
He lauded filmmakers from the state who have produced films with raw talent and passion, often without formal training or financial support. “It is now necessary to bring in professionalism in every aspect of filmmaking,” he added.
Information & Public Relations Minister Lakhmen Rymbui, in his address, said that film-making in the state has gained momentum over the past decade and described it as part of the creative economy. He urged young filmmakers to enrich their knowledge by actively participating in the sessions of the three-day festival.
Chief Secretary Shakil P Ahammad said that Meghalaya is known for its rich storytelling tradition, and films are among the most powerful media to narrate these stories. He added that with the state’s film policy and other initiatives, local talent will increasingly integrate with the global film industry—one of the most vibrant sectors.
He further noted that the government has recognised the film sector as a major industry and is working to bridge existing gaps, create opportunities, and expand the horizons of the creative economy.
The Chief Minister and other dignitaries also felicitated filmmakers and prominent film personalities during the inaugural session.
The three-day film festival will showcase a curated selection of 18 films from the Northeast, along with entries from Bhutan and Vietnam.
