AP Unveils Big Push to Make Telugu Cinema a Global Power

Andhra Pradesh has announced a major new vision to turn the state into India’s most film-friendly destination, with a special focus on boosting Telugu cinema, attracting global investments, and modernising film infrastructure. Tourism, Culture, and Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh shared this roadmap at the prestigious CII Big Picture Summit 2025 held at JW Marriott, Juhu, Mumbai.
Speaking to national and international investors, the Minister said Andhra Pradesh is entering a new era for cinematography, backed by a soon-to-be-launched comprehensive Film Tourism Policy. He called Telugu cinema a global brand, powered by blockbuster films like Baahubali, RRR, Kalki 2898 AD, Pushpa, Salaar, and OG, and assured that the State Government will provide full support to filmmakers, studios, and media entrepreneurs.
The Minister highlighted that AP has 1,103 cinema screens, the highest after Tamil Nadu, and contributes nearly 20% to India’s film industry. He said the government will support projects such as Integrated Film Cities, modern studios, dubbing theatres, and re-recording facilities, making AP the most supportive state for shooting and production.
Durgesh also announced that the government is preparing to revive the prestigious Nandi Awards and Nandi Natakotsavams, reaffirming its commitment to artists, technicians, and cultural talent across Andhra Pradesh.
He explained a wide range of benefits for investors, including 100% Stamp Duty reimbursement, 100% SGST reimbursement for up to 15 years, capital subsidies for MSME and mega projects, industrial-rate electricity, and a five-year electricity duty exemption. The state targets ₹25,000 crore in private investment by 2029 and already has a strong investment pipeline.
As part of the state’s Swarnandhra Vision @ 2047, Andhra Pradesh aims to become a global hub for AI, VFX, gaming, post-production, and digital innovation. Minister Durgesh explained that AP’s diverse natural beauty—from beaches and rivers to hill stations and pilgrimage centers—makes it perfect for film tourism. Seven major hubs, including Visakhapatnam, Tirupati, Amaravati, Srisailam, Araku Valley, Rajamahendravaram, and Gandikota, are being developed under a “Hub-and-Spoke” tourism model.
The Minister stressed that films are a powerful tool to showcase AP’s beauty to the world and invited investors to partner in building world-class infrastructure. He assured stable, transparent, and business-friendly governance and said AP aims to play a key role in taking India’s Media & Entertainment sector to the $100 Billion mark.
During the Summit, Minister Durgesh held meetings with key industry leaders from YouTube India, Shemaroo, Sony Entertainment, Radio Mirchi, Imagica, Cube Cinema, Papa Film Entertainment, and several studio and media representatives. Tourism MD and APTA CEO Amrapali Kata also presented the state’s vision for film sector growth to top industry experts, further strengthening AP’s pitch as India’s next major film and tourism hub.