After two months of lockdown due to the Coronavirus outbreak, the Maharashtra Government finally permitted shoots of films and television shows to resume in the first phase of relaxation. However, the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Prakash Javadekar, on Tuesday, informed that theatres will open only after the scenario is examined in the month of June. As per reports, Mr.Javadekar conveyed this during a video conference with the Association of Film Producers, Cinema Exhibitioners and Film Industry representatives.
According to reports, Mr. Javadekar, during the conference addressed the problems faced by the entertainment industry due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Touching upon the constant demand of opening theatres, he reportedly told that 'it will be examined after looking at the status of the COVID-19 pandemic in the month of June'. The Union Minister, in addition, appreciated that the country has over 9,500 screens that generate nearly Rs 30 crores per day with the sale of tickets at the box office.
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Addressing the specific demands of the entertainment industry, Mr. Javadekar told that the relief sought was more financial such as salary subsidy, interest-free loans for three years, exemption on taxes and duties, waiver of minimum demand charges on electricity and electricity at industrial rates. He also assured that the demands and requirements of the industry will be taken up by the concerned ministries.
Talking about the lockdown, theatres in Maharashtra were instructed to stop operations in the month of March due to the rapid spread of Coronavirus.
(Source: PTI)
