Minister Timilsina Pledges New Film Law, Allocates NPR 35 Million

Kathmandu. Minister of Communications and Information Dr. Vikram Timilsina has stated that the government is committed to enacting a new law that fully incorporates the sentiments and interests of filmmakers. He made this commitment while speaking at a special program organized in Kathmandu. The Minister informed that the government has already sent the 'Film Bill 2082' to the relevant parliamentary committee for clause-by-clause discussion for the overall development, expansion, and strengthening of the film sector. He mentioned that the proposal to send the bill to the committee has been passed by the House of Representatives, stating, 'I have come after the proposal to send the Film Bill, 2082 to the relevant committee for clause-by-clause discussion was passed in Parliament. This sector is a sector close to your hearts, a sector connected to your lives. I will make every possible effort from the government's side to uplift this sector by advancing it as a law.' He expressed hope that the government would make necessary arrangements in the parliamentary committee and that the committee would call filmmakers for discussion. Minister Timilsina clarified that he wants to bring about a change in the old government working style and tendency of talking big based on old documents but not delivering concrete results. He argued that the government's focus is not just on spending the budget but on how to achieve concrete achievements through production, creation, and art. He pointed out that while there is more debate from the House of Representatives to tea shops about where to spend, there is less discussion about increasing income and production. He stated that despite limited resources and means, the government has given special priority to the film sector. He mentioned that this time, the budget has been arranged in continuous coordination and consultation with the Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation for the promotion of the film sector. Minister Timilsina announced that the government has allocated thirty-five million rupees for the upcoming fiscal year to support the production of quality films that speak the voice and story of the country. He stated that good films will be supported through this budget by creating a clear method and criteria. He also assured that the Ministry of Finance would be requested to further expand the budget in the coming years based on the positive results obtained from this year's budget support. Expressing confidence that the film sector will make a significant contribution to the country's identity and economic prosperity, he called for the support and cooperation of all filmmakers in this endeavor.