Karnataka Budget: This is how Siddaramaiah government aims to revive a sagging Sandalwood

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has unveiled a series of initiatives to strengthen the state’s film industry, popularly known as Sandalwood. In the latest budget, the government has officially recognized the cinema sector as an industry, making it eligible for benefits under the state's industrial policy.

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A major highlight is the allocation of ₹500 crore for the construction of a world-class film city in Mysuru. The project will be developed on 150 acres under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. Additionally, the government has decided to build a multiplex in Nandini Layout, Bengaluru, on 2.5 acres of land to boost cinema infrastructure.

In a move aimed at affordability, the government has introduced uniform ticket pricing across all multiplexes, capping ticket rates at ₹200. This decision is expected to benefit audiences while ensuring fair pricing across cinema halls.

To support Kannada cinema in the digital era, the government is also encouraging the establishment of Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, aiming to provide more opportunities for regional filmmakers.

Preserving Karnataka’s cinematic heritage is another key focus, with ₹3 crore allocated for setting up a film repository to archive valuable films.

These measures reflect the government’s commitment to developing Sandalwood, making Karnataka a hub for film production, exhibition, and preservation.