Kerala government plans PPP model for JC Daniel International Film City proposed in revised budget
The proposed JC Daniel International Film City project announced in the revised Kerala Budget 2026-27 would be based on the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The government is considering several locations in Ernakulam to set up its ambitious venture to create a one-stop destination for film shoots. It included land and land earmarked for industrial development. The initial plan is to set aside about 25 to 30 acres for the multi-million dollar project.
“The project has generated interest among investors not only in Malayalam cinema but also outside it,” PC Vishnunadh, culture minister, told The Hindu. “The government will act as an intermediary for the successful implementation of the project. Without private investment, a project of this magnitude cannot become a reality,” he said.
He said land constraints in the state should be taken into account while implementing the project. “We have explored various options and found that the film city can be established on an area of nearly 25 to 30 acres. The government will look at the best of the international models of the film city before finalizing its design,” he said.
Allied infrastructure
The government also plans to attract private investors to set up allied infrastructure in the film city, which included premium hotels and studios. It will have infrastructure to meet the needs of all film departments. Besides exploring the tourism potential of the project, the government expects the film city to create direct and indirect employment opportunities.
The revised state budget presented by Chief Minister VD Satheesan, who also holds the finance portfolio, allocated a total of ₹100 million for various initiatives, including the JC Daniel Film City, granting formal industrial status to Malayalam cinema, creating a permanent venue for an international film festival, creating strong anti-piracy cells and cultivating an environment to attract premiere state and international film productions.
Published – 15 Jul 2026 11:33 IST