Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a significant shift in the hosting of National Film Awards, moving them from conventional conference rooms to India's premier tourist destinations. This initiative is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to take national events beyond traditional venues and connect them with destinations across the country.
The minister specifically highlighted Ekta Nagar as an exemplary destination, noting its global recognition as home to the world's tallest statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and its high attractiveness as a tourist spot. The presence of the Hon'ble President of India and leading film industry personalities at such destinations is expected to provide greater exposure and learning opportunities for visitors.
All states have been invited to submit proposals identifying their best tourism destinations for hosting subsequent National Film Awards. Proposals must include details about the best facilities available and a comprehensive plan for 360-degree development of the destination. The selected state will host the awards at their proposed tourist location.
The minister drew parallels with the G20 events that were hosted across various states under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, indicating this is part of a larger thought process to explore synergies between film and tourism. Bringing these two sectors together is expected to benefit tourist destinations while enabling the National Film Awards to reach physical locations across the country rather than remaining confined to conference rooms.