The Centre is considering creating a fund from which Indian films competing for the Oscars may get up to Rs 1 crore, while those contending for awards at the Cannes or Venice film festivals may get up to Rs 50 lakh. This is part of efforts of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to help Indian filmmakers gain international recognition, PTI reported.

“A proposal has been readied to provide support to filmmakers as they try to win awards in major international film festivals,” Minister of State for I&B Rajyavardhan Rathore said. He added that such filmmakers may get assistance from the Centre for travelling, exhibiting their movies, hiring halls, etc in other countries.

The I&B Ministry has also approached the ministries of home and external affairs, seeking to introduce a special visa category for foreign filmmakers who want to scout locations to shoot movies in India. By facilitating their visits in the country, Indian places can be promoted as global shooting destinations, Rathore said. A committee may be set up to look into the implementation of the proposal, officials said, adding that the scheme will need the Cabinet’s approval before brought into effect.