Andhra Pradesh Film Development Corporation Chairman Bharat Bhushan met with senior figures from the state's television industry this week. The discussion focused on the long-pending Nandi Awards and broader concerns of the TV sector.
Meeting Participants
The session brought together APFDC members Burra Sai Madhav and Meer. TV and OTT South President Prasad Rao also attended. TV Federation President Nani and Telugu Film Producers Council Secretary Thummala Prasanna Kumar joined the talks. Representatives from all 24 crafts within the television industry were present as well.
Nandi Awards Timeline Announced
Bhushan confirmed that the Nandi Awards, delayed for several years, will finally be presented soon. He said a plan is being finalised to cover the pending years from 2017 through 2024. Fresh details on this rollout will be shared shortly. Starting in 2025, the awards will resume as an annual event.
Plans are underway to host the ceremony in Tirupati. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is expected to attend. The event is tentatively scheduled for late November or early December.
Push for More Local Productions
Bhushan urged industry representatives to increase television shoots within Andhra Pradesh. He noted that current production activity in the state remains limited. He asked stakeholders to explore ways of hosting a larger share of shoots locally rather than treating the state as a secondary option.
Industry Demands Raised
In response, television industry representatives expressed willingness to expand shooting activity in the state. However, they stressed that this would require stronger backing from the government. Their key requests included land allocation for studios and production infrastructure across major cities and district towns.
They also asked that local artists and technicians be given fair opportunities, even when crews from other states are brought in for projects. The delegation further requested that the television media segment receive attention comparable to that given to the broader TV industry.
Additional appeals covered health insurance for artists, along with pension benefits where feasible. Representatives also sought shooting subsidies and financial support mechanisms to help producers manage costs without added strain.
Next Steps
Bhushan responded positively to the concerns raised. He assured attendees that detailed follow-up discussions would take place soon. He promised suitable decisions to protect the interests of the film, television and theatre sectors.
He clarified that these matters require careful study and cannot be resolved immediately. Committees will be formed to examine the issues in depth. The government is expected to announce formal decisions once this review is complete.
