The Uttar Pradesh Film Policy, 2018, introduced by the Yogi Adityanath government, marked a major shift in thestate’s approach towards the film and entertainment industry. Its objective was to transform Uttar Pradesh frommerely a backdrop for film shooting into a leading destination for film production, post-production, cinema infrastructure and skill development. The policy was further strengthened through the Uttar Pradesh Film Policy2023, which expanded incentives and aligned them with the proposed International Film City in Noida.Since 2018, Uttar Pradesh has significantly improved its standing as a film-friendly state through policyincentives, easier approvals and infrastructure development. The combination of the Film Policy, the upcomingInternational Film City, improved law and order, expanding expressway and airport networks, and strong tourismassets has positioned the state as an increasingly attractive destination for filmmakers and OTT platforms. While thelong-term economic impact will depend on sustained investment and continued project execution, the policy hasalready expanded filming activity, supported local employment and strengthened Uttar Pradesh’s presence in India’smedia and entertainment sector.The policy seeks to: Establish Uttar Pradesh as a preferred destination for film production. Promote the state’s cultural, historical and religious heritage through cinema. Generate employment in filmmaking and allied sectors. Encourage investment in film infrastructure, studios and training institutes. Boost tourism through film-induced promotion of destinations.Major IncentivesThe policy offers one of the most attractive incentive packages in India: Subsidy up to Rs 1 crore for films shooting at least 50 percent of their schedule in Uttar Pradesh. Subsidy up to Rs 2 crore for films completing two-thirds of their shooting in the state. Additional incentives for employing artists, technicians, singers and writers from Uttar Pradesh. Subsidies for film processing and post-production carried out in the state. Financial assistance for establishing film and acting institutes. 100 percent SGST reimbursement for eligible multiplexes and cinema halls. Enhanced incentives under the Film Policy 2023, including higher grants for regional-language films andrepeat filmmakers.Achievements Since Launch1. Surge in Film ShootingThe simplified single-window clearance system through Film Bandhu has made obtaining shooting permissionseasier. Uttar Pradesh has witnessed a significant rise in feature films, web series, documentaries and advertisementsbeing shot across cities such as Lucknow, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Agra, Mathura, Ayodhya, Gorakhpur and Noida.2. Promotion of TourismFilms and OTT productions showcasing iconic locations like the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, Ayodhya, Taj Mahal,Bara Imambara, Chunar Fort and the ghats of Varanasi have enhanced the state’s tourism appeal and generatedadditional visitor interest.3. Growth of Local EmploymentThe policy has created employment opportunities for: Local actors and junior artists Camera crews and technicians Set designers and production staff Hotels, transport operators, caterers and event managers Costume designers and makeup professionalsThis has strengthened the local creative economy.4. Boost to Regional CinemaSpecial incentives for Bhojpuri, Awadhi, Braj and Bundeli films have encouraged regional-language filmmaking,helping preserve Uttar Pradesh’s linguistic and cultural heritage.5. Development of the International Film CityOne of the biggest achievements has been the launch of the International Film City in Noida near the upcomingNoida International Airport. The project aims to become one of India’s largest integrated film production hubs withstudios, post-production facilities, film institutes and entertainment infrastructure. Construction and initial film-related activities gathered momentum during 2025–26.Film Bandhu’s RoleThe Yogi government established Film Bandhu to facilitate filmmakers approaching state authorities for logisticsrelated to filmmaking in Uttar Pradesh. Film Bandhu, in fact, has emerged as the nodal agency for: Single-window clearances. Coordinating permissions with government departments. Processing subsidy applications. Marketing Uttar Pradesh as a filming destination nationally and internationally.The success of UP film policy may be gauged by the fact that around 2023, as many as 500 films were shot in thestate.
