IMPHAL, December 18: The state government will soon adopt a separate policy for the artists engaged in films, arts and culture and other related fields , assured state Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh today.
Addressing the inaugural function of the 8th Manipur State Film Festival 2013 today, the CM elaborated that Manipur is identified by the outside world through arts and culture, heritage and talented sportspersons, but it is unfortunate that the government is unable to provide properly for the artists.
The function was held at the MFDC Multipurpose Auditorium Hall organized by the Manipur Film Development Co-operation Ltd.
The state’s rich heritage, arts and culture are highlighted in the Manipuri films, and the government wants to do something for the talented artiste, the CM observed.
He further directed the commissioner, Arts and Culture and the managing director of the Manipur Film Development Corporation to deliberate on the issue with other renowned personalities working in the field of films, arts and culture and to submit the suggestions to the government.
The Chief Minister elaborated that the policy could be to provide talented artists already conferred with national and international awards with jobs according to their qualification.
Or it could be provision of cash incentives to an artist for his contribution in the field, he opined.
He also observed the need to encourage the state’s talent upto the international level.
The CM also remarked that UNESCO has honoured the Nata Sankirtana by declaring it as a cultural heritage of humanity.
Although the MFDC has been planning to organize the Manipur Film Festival bi-annually, lack of manpower and other issues have always created problems and as such the festival has to be held every three years, said commissioner Arts and Culture, RK Nimai who presided over today’s function.
There are two awards sections- feature and non-feature- which have been titled the Governor’s Award and the Chief Minister’s Award, respectively, he said.
The film festival will continue till December 24.
Renowned director Aribam Syam Sharma addressing the function said the first Manipur State Film Festival was held during his youth.
Manipuri film has come a long way to get to this position today, he said.
He further opined on the need for an open discussion to elaborate to find new and better ways to produce and make more films in the state.
Altogether 40 entries were made in the feature film section with only nine selected for screening, whereas 35 entries were received in the non-feature section of which only 12 were selected for screening by the jury.
The awards for the festival will be announced on the closing day.
During the inaugural function, the dignitaries led in paying floral tribute to the departed artists of the Manipuri film world.