Aizawl, June 3: Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L. Murugan has assured the Mizoram government of the Centre’s support for strengthening the state’s media, film and digital infrastructure sectors during his two-day visit to the state.
Murugan, who also serves as Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, arrived in Aizawl on June 2 and held a meeting with Mizoram Information and Public Relations Minister B. Lalchhanzova soon after reaching Lengpui Airport. The discussions focused on expanding opportunities in the media and creative industries while enhancing digital infrastructure across the state.
During the meeting, Lalchhanzova presented several proposals aimed at positioning Mizoram as a key centre for digital content creation and creative enterprises. Among the major initiatives proposed was the establishment of Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics (AVGC) content creator laboratories in 200 schools and 20 colleges. The project is intended to equip students with modern digital skills, promote innovation and encourage entrepreneurship in emerging creative fields.
The state government also sought support for specialised training programmes for Mizo filmmakers through premier institutions such as the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). The proposal is aimed at strengthening technical expertise and enabling local filmmakers to compete more effectively at national and international levels.
Another key issue raised during the meeting was the need for a dedicated scheme to develop and renovate cinema halls and establish new theatre infrastructure across the Northeast. The state government maintained that improved cinema facilities would help promote local-language films, preserve cultural heritage and generate employment opportunities within the creative sector.
Lalchhanzova further proposed expanding the Lemchan Film Festival, held earlier this year, into a five-day event. The move is expected to provide greater exposure for local talent, facilitate networking opportunities and strengthen Mizoram’s position within the regional and national film industry.
The state government also requested financial assistance for media and development projects under the Centre’s provision earmarking 10 per cent of Gross Budgetary Support for the northeastern region. Continued institutional support was additionally sought to enable Mizo filmmakers to participate in prominent national and international film festivals, helping increase the global visibility of Mizo cinema.
Responding positively to the proposals, Murugan assured the state government that the Centre would actively consider the requests and extend support for the development of Mizoram’s media, film and digital sectors. He also expressed interest in attending a film festival in the state in the future, reflecting the Centre’s commitment to promoting Mizoram’s creative and cultural industries.
Following the meeting, the Union minister travelled to Kolasib district, where he is scheduled to review the implementation of various government projects and interact with district officials during the remainder of his visit.
The discussions are being viewed as an important step towards strengthening Mizoram’s creative economy, improving digital capabilities and creating new opportunities for young professionals in the media, entertainment and content creation sectors.
