Union Budget 2026 Boosts AVGC Sector with IICT Mumbai-Led Labs in Schools and Colleges
In a significant move to foster the growth of India's animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics (AVGC) industry, the central government has announced its support for the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) in Mumbai. This initiative, unveiled in the Union Budget 2026-27, involves the establishment of content creation labs in 15,000 secondary schools and 500 colleges across the country.
Budget Speech Highlights AVGC's Potential and Employment Goals
During her budget speech, the Finance Minister emphasized the burgeoning AVGC sector, projecting a demand for two million professionals by 2030. She outlined the government's commitment to supporting these AVGC labs as part of broader education-to-employment pathways. This strategic focus aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements, ensuring that students are equipped with relevant skills for the future job market.
IICT Mumbai: A Flagship Hub for Research and Training
According to a state government statement, IICT Mumbai will serve as a flagship centre dedicated to research, training, and forging industry partnerships. Operating on a hub-and-spoke model, the institute is designed to nurture talent for both Indian and global entertainment industries. To expedite its development, the government is facilitating all necessary approvals through single-window clearances, streamlining the process for faster implementation.
Emphasis on Skill-Driven Growth and National Development
Shailendra Deolankar, State Director of Higher Education, highlighted the distinctive feature of this year's budget: its strategic emphasis on education and skill development as core drivers of national progress. He noted that the budget clearly links education with employability, innovation, and export competitiveness, reflecting a forward-looking approach to human capital creation. The thrust on design education, including new initiatives like the National Institute of Design in Eastern India, alongside the AVGC labs, demonstrates a focused commitment to skill-driven economic growth.
This initiative is part of a series of measures announced in the budget to enhance India's creative and technological capabilities, positioning the country as a global leader in the AVGC domain. By integrating these labs into educational institutions, the government aims to inspire young minds, foster creativity, and build a robust pipeline of skilled professionals ready to meet the industry's evolving demands.
