First modern Film City: Punjab finalises preparations for launch

Lahore, Punjab has embarked on an ambitious project to revitalize the province's cinematic heritage and position it as a leading hub for film, drama, culture, and tourism. The final preparations for the launch of Pakistan's first state-of-the-art Film City are nearing completion, set to commence on December 15 under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.

The government has introduced a 35 percent rebate for Punjabi films and a 20 percent rebate for Urdu films produced within Punjab, a move aimed at bolstering the local film industry.

At the inaugural meeting of the Punjab Film Authority, chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, key decisions were made to promote modern filmmaking and restore Lahore's status as a center for the film industry. The chief minister has also endorsed the creation of Pakistan's first royalty law for the film sector, with the intention of presenting it at the upcoming Punjab Film Authority meeting.

The envisioned Film City will house an array of facilities, including a film and music school, museum, trading house, post-production center, studio complex, and the province's largest convention center.

The rebate policy is anticipated to provide financial relief to filmmakers, stimulate quality film production, and lure investment into the industry. Furthermore, an online one-window system is to be introduced to assist filmmakers in identifying suitable shooting locations. The Film City Authority's budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, amounting to over Rs589 million, is awaiting review by the financing committee.

Meanwhile, permission has been granted to hire 26 employees in the initial phase, accounting for 53 sanctioned posts. The authority's board will wield the authority to appoint and dismiss members.

The meeting also touched upon progress in establishing six committees, the formation of the Punjab Film Fund Committee being a notable highlight. Measures for the restoration of vintage cinemas, installation of solar systems, and provision of budget-friendly entertainment for the public have been approved. Additionally, an online booking system for cinemas is set to be introduced.

A training program aimed at enhancing the skills of young filmmakers has been sanctioned, featuring international experts to impart knowledge on contemporary filmmaking techniques. Addressing the gathering, Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb expressed Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif's vision for Punjab to become a global benchmark for screen tourism within five years.

She emphasized that Punjab's rich culture and heritage would be showcased globally through the Film City, highlighting the project's role in revitalizing the film industry, generating employment, and offering quality and affordable entertainment to the public.