West Bengal is pioneering a "Mini Cinema Policy" to revitalize its film industry and boost local businesses. Announced on Thursday at the Business & Industry Conclave by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the policy aims to establish 50-seater air-conditioned theaters, primarily for film screenings, in suburban and rural areas.

Who Can Open These Theatres?

The policy is designed to be accessible to a wide range of business owners and entrepreneurs. While specific eligibility criteria aren't explicitly detailed, the initiative targets those looking to utilize small auditoriums for entertainment and commerce. The government intends to support small businesses, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas, by offering a more accessible exhibition format for independent and small-budget Bengali filmmakers. Actor Prosenjit Chatterjee is already working on Bengal's first mini cinema on Park Street.

What’s The Process?

The West Bengal government has streamlined the licensing process to facilitate the establishment of mini-cinemas. District Magistrates and the Kolkata Police Commissioner are designated as the nodal authorities for evaluating and clearing applications. These officers will serve as single-point contacts to ensure fast-track approvals.

To set up a mini cinema, applicants must obtain a fitness certificate for the building and fire protection system, along with the necessary trade licenses. Permission is required from the District Magistrate or Police Commissioner, accompanied by a project outline. Following a spot inspection by the police, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) will be issued within seven days. The entire licensing process is expected to be completed within four weeks. The Information & Cultural Affairs Department will act as the nodal agency for addressing any grievances.

Technical Specifications

A mini cinema is defined as an air-conditioned auditorium seating approximately 50 people. It must feature an LED digital display board and a projection system connected to a desktop computer and server. The display board's positioning is regulated to ensure optimal viewing angles for the audience. The film operator must be computer literate. Films will be accessed digitally via an electronic server. Fire safety measures are mandatory for the AC system and to prevent short circuits at the digital display.

Which Business Owners Can Benefit?

Several types of business owners stand to benefit from this policy:

• Entrepreneurs in suburban and rural areas: The policy aims to revitalize local entertainment spaces and support small businesses in regions lacking large multiplexes.
• Independent filmmakers: Mini-cinemas offer a more accessible platform for showcasing independent and small-budget Bengali films.
• Existing auditorium owners: Owners of small auditoriums can repurpose their spaces to screen films and generate revenue.
• Local businesses: The establishment of mini-cinemas can drive foot traffic and boost commerce in the surrounding areas.

The West Bengal Mini Cinema Policy represents a significant step towards revitalizing the state's film industry, promoting local culture, and supporting small businesses. By streamlining the process and making it easier to open mini-cinemas, the government hopes to reverse the decline in single-screen theaters and rejuvenate public interest in Bengali-language cinema.