I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announces National Film Awards to be hosted at top tourist destinations
- IBEF
- September 23, 2026
The National Film Awards will be taken to some of India’s leading tourist destinations to promote tourism and connect the country’s film and tourism sectors, according to Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting. Speaking to the media on September 22, 2026, Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw said the initiative is inspired by the vision of Mr. Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, to take national events beyond conventional venues and connect them with destinations across the country. Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted Ekta Nagar as an example of a destination that has gained international recognition and is home to the world’s tallest statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Hosting the National Film Awards at such destinations is expected to provide greater visibility to tourist attractions by bringing the President of India, leading personalities from the film industry and visitors to prominent tourism locations.
The initiative aims to move the National Film Awards beyond conference rooms and bring them closer to people while using the platform to promote India’s diverse tourism destinations. Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw invited all States to submit proposals identifying their best tourism destinations for hosting future National Film Awards. The proposals are expected to include suitable facilities and a plan for the 360-degree development of the selected destination, with the State whose proposal is selected hosting the subsequent awards at the proposed location. Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw also highlighted the experience of the G20, when events were organised across different parts of India, and said that a similar approach is being adopted for the National Film Awards. By bringing film and tourism together, the initiative seeks to increase visibility for tourist destinations while creating opportunities to showcase India’s cultural and tourism potential to a wider audience.
Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.
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