Special Correspondent
Panaji
The 57th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will focus on young filmmakers, strengthen international participation and position the festival as a stronger platform for India’s
creative economy.
The decision was taken at the first steering committee meeting for IFFI 2026, held under the chairmanship of Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L Murugan
in New Delhi.
The meeting also reviewed preparations for the festival, which will be held in Goa from
November 20 to 28.
The committee focused on creating greater opportunities for young and emerging filmmakers, expanding master classes and mentorship programmes, and strengthening international participation.
Murugan stressed the need to showcase the diversity of Indian cinema while strengthening global creative exchanges and promoting India’s growing creative economy.
The committee also reviewed arrangements being made by the Goa government, the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for the festival.
The meeting acknowledged the role played by the Goa government in the growth of IFFI.
Murugan paid tribute to former chief minister late Manohar Parrikar, “whose vision contributed to establishing the state as an international destination
for cinema”.
NFDC managing director Prakash Magdum presented an update on preparations and initiatives for the upcoming edition of the festival, while Festival Director Ashutosh Gowariker highlighted the need for a compelling selection of films from India
and abroad.
