Andhra Pradesh is set to enter a new era in cinematography, with the state government outlining an ambitious plan to transform AP into the nation’s most preferred destination for film production and tourism. Speaking at the CII Big Picture Summit 2025 in Mumbai, Tourism and Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh said that a comprehensive Film Tourism Policy will soon be unveiled to strengthen the film ecosystem from production to exhibition.

Durgesh highlighted the rapid rise of Telugu cinema as a global brand, pointing to blockbusters such as Baahubali, RRR, Pushpa and Kalki 2898 AD, which he said have showcased world-class storytelling and VFX, setting new benchmarks and elevating Telugu creativity on the global stage. Andhra Pradesh, with 1,103 screens, is already one of India’s largest cinema markets, he said, assuring full government support to the sector. He said the new policy will encourage investment in integrated film cities, modern studios, dubbing theatres, and post-production facilities. Inviting investments in media and entertainment, the minister outlined key incentives such as industry status for tourism and hospitality, 100% stamp duty reimbursement, exemption from land conversion charges, and up to 100% SGST reimbursement for 15 years.

Hospitality units will get power at industrial tariffs with a five-year duty exemption. Minister Durgesh said that Andhra Pradesh aims to become a global hub for AI, VFX, animation, and gaming, under the state’s Swarnandhra Vision 2047. With diverse locations from Visakhapatnam’s beaches and Tirupati’s temples to Araku Valley’s hillscapes, the state is developing major tourism hubs and thematic circuits to attract investors.