Centre backs Goa govt to the hilt for film festival

Extending full support to the Goa government, which will host the international film festival of India, due to begin this month, information, broadcasting and culture minister S Jaipal Reddy on Monday asked the state government to work towards generating international appeal for the festival.

Speaking at the first meeting of the organising committee of the 36th film festival here, Reddy appreciated the efforts being made by the state in organising the festival.

"In view of the keen interest shown by the state government, the Centre has decided to make Goa, a permanent venue for the International Film Festival of India," he said.

"The state government should work towards generating international appeal for the festival and aim at catapulting it to international levels at the earliest.

"My ministry will extend all possible cooperation in making this event a grand success," the minister said adding that he would personally intervene to ensure enhanced airtravel facility to the venue.

The Goa chief minister Pratapsingh Rane thanked Reddy for projecting the state as a film destination. "At a time when Indian films are making a mark globally, a permanent venue for the film festival would catalyse the industry's effort in gaining further success," he said.

The 36th international film festival, due to begin November 24, aims to showcase a selection of the best of global and Indian cinema and bring together the film industry professionals, film students, film marketing professionals, the media and the general public.