Raphael Warjri

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday inaugurated the first Shillong International Film Festival at the State Convention Centre, Shillong, underscoring the government’s push to promote the creative economy and strengthen the film ecosystem in the state.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister stated that the festival was conceived to provide a much-needed platform for the state’s talented youth, who often lack opportunities to showcase their work. He emphasised that Meghalaya’s rich tradition of storytelling and cultural heritage holds significant potential for the film industry, not only in acting but across technical and creative domains.

Highlighting the state’s demographic profile, he noted that nearly 50 per cent of the population is below 20 years of age, making it crucial for the government to innovate and expand employment avenues. He pointed to key initiatives, including a state-supported OTT platform, the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP), and the state’s film policy, as steps towards building a sustainable ecosystem.

The Chief Minister also informed that proposals for a Film City and a Film Institute are under consideration to position Meghalaya as a filmmaking destination and to equip youth with professional skills. He stressed the need to bring greater professionalism into the sector while acknowledging the contributions of local filmmakers who have worked with limited resources.

Information & Public Relations Minister Lakhmen Rymbui observed that filmmaking in the state has gained momentum over the past decade and described it as an emerging pillar of the creative economy, urging young participants to make the most of the festival.
Chief Secretary Dr Shakil P Ahammad remarked that films remain a powerful medium for storytelling and said government interventions would help local talent integrate with the global film industry.

The inaugural session also witnessed the felicitation of filmmakers and prominent film personalities. The three-day festival will showcase 18 curated films from the Northeast, along with entries from Bhutan and Vietnam.