Chanchal Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), Government of India, visited the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), National Film Development Corporation–National Film Archive of India (NFDC–NFAI), and Doordarshan Centre, Pune, on Monday. This marks his first visit to these key media institutions since assuming office on April 1, 2026.

According to a PIB release, the visit focused on reviewing the functioning, infrastructure and ongoing initiatives across these premier organisations. At FTII, Kumar was received by Vice Chancellor Dhiraj Singh and NFDC Managing Director Prakash Magdum, who welcomed him and briefed him on the institute’s activities.

During his visit to FTII, the Secretary undertook a comprehensive tour of the campus, inspecting key facilities including the new theatre complex, camera store, library, academic departments and studios. Senior faculty members apprised him of the institute’s advanced equipment and academic framework, highlighting the training being imparted to students in film and television disciplines.

Emphasising the importance of film and digital media education, Chanchal Kumar noted that such platforms play a vital role in presenting India’s rich cultural heritage to diverse audiences. He underlined the expanding contribution of the media and entertainment sector to the country’s economy and encouraged institutions like FTII to take a lead in promoting innovation and skill development among students.

He also stressed the need for nurturing young talent, not only in producing quality films and television content but also in building entrepreneurial capabilities within the media industry. The visit assumes significance as FTII has recently transitioned into a university, a move aimed at broadening its academic scope and strengthening its engagement with the evolving media landscape.

The Secretary later visited the NFDC–NFAI campuses in Pune, where he toured the projection room, theatre, vaults and library. He also reviewed the Phase II facility, where digitisation work under the National Film Heritage Mission is currently underway, aimed at preserving India’s cinematic legacy.

At the Doordarshan Centre, Pune, Kumar reviewed the functioning of the centre and its programme production infrastructure. He interacted with officials and discussed aspects related to content creation and audience outreach, reaffirming the role of public broadcasting in connecting with viewers across regions.