To address the concerns of Marathi filmmakers regarding inadequate screen time in multiplexes, the Maharashtra government has formed a committee to boost Marathi film screenings in multiplexes. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the formation of this government-level committee, emphasizing the state government's commitment to the survival and growth of Marathi cinema. He has directed the newly formed committee to submit its report within six weeks.

The committee's responsibilities extend beyond securing additional shows for Marathi films; it will also suggest long-term solutions to strengthen the Marathi film industry. The panel includes industry stakeholders and government officials, aiming to submit recommendations within 45 days. Shinde stressed the need to support Marathi filmmakers for the industry's survival. The move follows concerns over abrupt removals and unfair fee practices affecting regional cinema.

A meeting was held at the Mantralaya, under the leadership of Deputy CM Shinde, with various stakeholders from the Marathi film industry. Discussions were held on issues like the sudden removal of Marathi films from theaters within three days, no refunds despite advance payments for week-long screenings, arbitrary changes or cancellations of show timings, and delays in getting censor approvals despite repeated follow-ups. The meeting included producers, distributors, film unions, and multiplex owners, as well as representatives from political film wings like MNS, Shiv Sena, and NCP.

The proposed committee will be chaired by the additional chief secretary of the home department and include principal secretaries of the appeal and security, urban development, culture, and transport departments. Moreover, representatives from the Marathi film industry – producers.

This isn't the first time the Maharashtra government has intervened to promote Marathi cinema. In 2015, the government made it compulsory for multiplexes to show Marathi films in prime time slots, between 6 to 9 pm. The government also directed theaters to play a short documentary about Dadasaheb Phalke before the commencement of a film.

Following criticism of the prime-time mandate, the government relaxed the norms, allowing Marathi films to be screened on any one screen in multiplexes any time between 12 PM to 9 PM, depending on the demand of the producer to the exhibitor. Marathi film producers had complained that multiplexes were showing them at odd timings, mostly in early morning slots. It was decided that if a film producer demands another slot after 12 noon, they will be given it. In case of any dispute, the matter would go to a four-member committee comprising representatives of multiplexes and Marathi film producers.