Fri Jan 24 07:44:04 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Imposes Stricter Rules on Film Shoots in Forests
**Bengaluru, January 24, 2025** – Karnataka’s Forest, Environment, and Ecology Minister B. Eshwar Khandre has announced new regulations requiring mandatory government permission for all filming activities within the state’s forests. The order, issued in a letter dated January 20th, follows alleged misuse of forest land by film crews.
The minister stated that prior permission is now mandatory for movies, documentaries, and television serials, with prescribed fees to be collected by Deputy Conservators of Forests (DCFs) before any filming commences. This move comes in response to concerns about local authorities granting permissions without proper oversight, potentially exposing sensitive environmental information and endangering biodiversity.
Minister Khandre cited recent incidents as the impetus for the stricter rules. He specifically mentioned the alleged violation of shooting conditions by the crew of *Kantara: Chapter 1* in the Sakleshpur region and the reported felling of trees by the crew of *Toxic* on HMT premises last year.
The new regulations aim to prevent future misuse of forest land and ensure the protection of Karnataka’s environment.
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