"IFFI has become important milestone in development of film industry": Ashwini Vaishnaw

Panaji (Goa) [India], November 20 (ANI): Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Railways, and Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa has become a milestone in the development of the film industry in India.

While briefing about the film festival, he shared, "I welcome all the delegates from across the world to IFFI 2024. IFFI has become a very important milestone in the development of the film industry in India. We in India at this point are very much focused on the content creators' economy...We believe with the addition of technology and the development of the creators' ecosystem, India can play a major role in the way creators' economy is shaping up..."The Minister also highlighted India's creative sector as a dynamic force contributing to economic growth and showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage. "People are coming up with innovative content that showcases India's diverse cultures, cuisines, rich heritage, and gems of Indian literature and languages in interesting and creative ways as the country continues to empower creators, foster innovation, and drive cultural diplomacy on the world stage," he said as per the press release shared by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The Union Minister also called upon creators to leverage cutting-edge technologies to craft stories that resonate with global audiences while reflecting India's unique identity. "With the integration of technology and the development of a robust creators' ecosystem, we believe India's creative sector will continue to thrive," he said.

Earlier, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that every year the festival is gaining new heights. "The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India is being organised in Goa... IFFI and Goa are very well connected. I welcome all the national and international guests...This has become a calendar event for people. And as always, we upgrade the infrastructure," he said.

IFFI started on November 20 and will continue til November 28 in Goa. While addressing the media at the Curtain Raiser Press Conference in Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant informed that Goa is ready to welcome the delegates to the grand festival of films.

He said that IFFI 2024 has received a record 1,676 submissions from 101 countries, a testament to the festival's growing international standing. IFFI 2024 will present over 180 international films from 81 countries, including 16 world premieres, 3 international premieres, 43 Asian premieres and 109 Indian premiers.

With a selection of celebrated titles and award-winning films from the global circuit, this year's festival is set to leave a lasting impact on audiences.The theme of IFFI 2024, 'Young Filmmakers: The Future is Now', underscores the importance of fresh voices in shaping the future of world cinema.

Australia will be the Country of Focus, showcasing a dedicated film package and fostering collaboration with India through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Screen Australia and NFDC. The festival will be Opening with an Australian Film Better Man by Michael Gracey which offers a captivating glimpse into the life of the iconic British popstar Robbie Williams.

The Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to 'Philip Noyce', the celebrated and awarded Australian director, known for his exceptional storytelling and mastery in creating suspenseful, culturally resonant films. Noyce's filmography includes iconic films like Patriot Games, Clear and Present Danger, Salt, The Saint, The Bone Collector and many more. His collaborations with celebrated actors like Harrison Ford, Nicole Kidman, Angelina Jolie, Denzel Washington, and Michael Caine, underscore his lasting impact on cinema.

In the Best Feature Film Debut Director award category, 5 International and 2 Indian Films will compete for the coveted Silver Peacock, 10 lakh Indian rupees as a cash prize and a certificate.

Best Web Series (OTT) Award has received 46 entries this year compared to 32 last year. Certificates and a cash prize of 10 Lakhs will be given as prize money to the winning series, which will be announced in the closing ceremony.

IFFI 2024 will also champion diversity and inclusion with 47 films directed by women and 66 works by young and debut filmmakers, reflecting the festival's commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices. The Women in Cinema section will highlight emerging talent and the significant contributions of female filmmakers.

IFFI 2024 will host the 1st IFFiesta, an entertainment extravaganza, enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the festival, through the magic of film, music, dance, food, art, and interactive experiences.

A Carnival Parade around the 'Journey of Indian Cinema' will be organised as part of the IFFiesta on November 22. (ANI)