Andhra Pradesh Government Plans Single Comprehensive G.O. for Movie Ticket Pricing
Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh government is set to put an end to the prevailing confusion over movie ticket prices by introducing a single, comprehensive Government Order (G.O.) applicable to all films. Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh announced this after a review meeting of the Film Ticket Price Rationalisation Committee held at the Secretariat on Wednesday.
Speaking to the media, the Minister said the government intends to move away from the existing practice of issuing separate G.Os. for each film based on its budget. Instead, a uniform policy will be introduced to ensure clarity, consistency, and balance between the interests of the film industry and the general public. He emphasised that ticket pricing decisions would be taken in a manner that does not burden common audiences while also supporting the sustainability of the cinema industry.
The Minister stated that the opinions of producers, distributors, and exhibitors would be taken into consideration before arriving at a final decision. Discussions are also underway on large-budget films, artists’ remunerations, and the possibility of categorising films and revising ticket prices uniformly based on those categories. He added that meetings with producers and distributors would be held shortly and assured that the government would address the issues faced by the film industry.
The Minister stated that the opinions of producers, distributors, and exhibitors would be taken into consideration before arriving at a final decision. Discussions are also underway on large-budget films, artists’ remunerations, and the possibility of categorising films and revising ticket prices uniformly based on those categories. He added that meetings with producers and distributors would be held shortly and assured that the government would address the issues faced by the film industry.
The committee reviewed issues related to ticket pricing in multiplexes and single-screen theatres, as well as guidelines for increasing ticket prices for high-budget films. After comprehensive deliberations, the committee will submit its recommendations to the government. The Minister clarified that until now, ticket price revisions have been made through the Home Department under existing G.Os., but the committee is currently examining appropriate pricing structures for low-budget and high-budget films.
He further stated that norms would be framed regarding the percentage of film shooting to be carried out in Andhra Pradesh, with a broader objective of promoting tourism and developing shooting locations in the state. Once a clear policy decision is finalised, a new G.O. will be issued soon. The government, he said, would stand firmly by film producers after considering all stakeholders’ views.
Reaffirming the government’s vision, Kandula Durgesh said Andhra Pradesh would be developed into a major hub for film production in India, with continued encouragement for the growth of the film and television industry.
Earlier, committee members, including producer Kuchibhotla Vivek, director Jasti Dharmateja, distributor Nakkalapudi Saibabu, and exhibitor Sompalli Siva Prasad, met the Minister and shared their suggestions. The Minister was later felicitated by the members.