Fri Aug 01 10:31:37 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewrite as a news article, keeping the Indian perspective in mind:

**Summary:**

The Kerala government is launching a two-day “Kerala Film Policy Conclave” on August 2, 2025, to create a comprehensive policy addressing long-standing issues in the Malayalam film industry. This initiative stems from concerns raised after the 2017 assault of a female actor and the subsequent Hema Committee report, which exposed widespread problems like sexual harassment, discrimination, and unfair labor practices. The policy aims to go beyond production incentives, addressing issues such as gender inequality, lack of formal industry recognition, and the need for regulatory oversight. The conclave will feature panel discussions on topics like gender inclusivity, contractual agreements, online permitting systems, and ethical AI usage.

**News Article:**

**Kerala Government to Tackle Industry Woes with Landmark Film Policy Conclave**

**Thiruvananthapuram, August 1, 2025:** In a decisive move to address systemic issues plaguing the Malayalam film industry, the Kerala government is set to launch a two-day “Kerala Film Policy Conclave” on August 2nd. The initiative, inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan with actors Mohanlal and Suhasini Mani Ratnam as chief guests, is a direct response to the challenges exposed in recent years, particularly those concerning gender equality and worker rights.

The need for a comprehensive policy gained urgency following the 2017 assault on a prominent female actor and the subsequent Justice K. Hema Committee report. The report revealed alarming instances of sexual exploitation, illegal bans, wage disparity, and unacceptable working conditions within the industry.

“While other states have film policies, many focus solely on production incentives,” explained an official from the Kerala State Film Development Corporation. “Our aim is to create a holistic policy that addresses all facets of the industry, including its formal recognition and the implementation of effective regulatory frameworks.”

The conclave will feature a series of panel discussions involving industry experts, focusing on critical areas like:

* **Gender and Inclusivity:** Promoting equitable workplaces and enforcing the POSH Act.
* **Contractual Agreements:** Addressing the lack of formal contracts for film workers.
* **Regulatory Oversight:** Establishing a centralized body for industry regulation.
* **Streamlined Permitting:** Creating a single-window online system for filming permits.
* **Ethical Practices:** Addressing cyber threats, ethical marketing, and the use of AI in filmmaking.

The absence of formal “industry” status has hindered the Malayalam film industry’s growth, leaving it without proper regulations and oversight. The new policy aims to rectify this, protecting the rights of all stakeholders, from actors and technicians to producers and distributors.

Filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan will be the chief guest at the closing ceremony on August 3rd. The Minister for Cultural Affairs, Saji Cherian, will present a detailed report of the sessions on both days. The Kerala Film Policy Conclave marks a pivotal moment for the Malayalam film industry, promising a future built on fairness, transparency, and sustainable growth.

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