Maharashtra Government to Formulate Comprehensive Strategy for Live Entertainment Sector Growth
The Maharashtra government has initiated a significant move to bolster the state's live entertainment and concert economy by preparing a detailed action plan. This strategic development follows the central government's national push to structure and expand this rapidly growing sector across India.
DGIPR Designated as Nodal Agency for State-Level Implementation
According to a Government Resolution issued on February 3 by the General Administration Department, the Directorate General of Information and Public Relations (DGIPR) has been officially designated as the nodal agency responsible for preparing Maharashtra's comprehensive action plan. The DGIPR had previously submitted a proposal to create appropriate arrangements at the state government level to support this initiative.
The resolution clearly states that "in order to promote and develop the live entertainment economy in India and to make India a global leader in the live entertainment sector by 2030, the Centre has established a 'Live Events Development Cell.'" It further emphasizes that "through the joint action group, the objective has been set to increase the cultural, economic and employment potential of the country."
Key Components of Maharashtra's Live Entertainment Action Plan
The state's action plan will focus on several critical areas to streamline and enhance the live events ecosystem:
- Single-Window Clearance System: The government plans to establish a unified 'single window' facility for obtaining various permits required for live events, significantly reducing bureaucratic hurdles for event organizers.
- Pre-Approved Venue Identification: Authorities will finalize and maintain a comprehensive list of pre-approved venues across Maharashtra where live concerts and events can be held, providing clarity and convenience for event planners.
- Portal Integration: Various state government departments have been instructed to integrate their permit portals with the national portal being prepared specifically for live events, creating a seamless digital ecosystem.
- Competitive Pricing Review: The state will review rental fees for sports and cultural venues in coordination with relevant departments to ensure Maharashtra remains competitive in attracting major events.
National Context and Industry Growth Potential
This state-level initiative aligns with broader national efforts to develop India's live entertainment sector. In January, the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting established the 'Live Events Development Cell' (LEDC) to support structured growth of the industry nationwide. A Joint Action Group has also been formed at the national level to coordinate these efforts across states.
The timing of this move is particularly significant as the organized live events market has been expanding rapidly. Industry estimates value the sector at approximately Rs 20,861 crore in 2024, with a growth rate of 15 percent. Projections indicate the sector could maintain a compound annual growth rate of 18 percent, outpacing several traditional media segments and demonstrating substantial economic potential.
Strategic Importance and Future Directions
The Maharashtra government's initiative reflects the growing recognition of live entertainment as a crucial economic driver with multiple benefits:
- Economic Impact: Live events contribute significantly to local economies through ticket sales, hospitality, transportation, and ancillary services.
- Employment Generation: The sector creates numerous direct and indirect employment opportunities across various skill levels.
- Tourism Boost: Major concerts and festivals attract domestic and international tourists, enhancing Maharashtra's appeal as an entertainment destination.
- Cultural Development: Live events serve as platforms for artistic expression and cultural exchange, enriching the state's cultural landscape.
The LEDC, constituted under the directions of Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, brings together representatives from central and state governments, industry bodies, and major event companies to coordinate policy support and sectoral expansion. This initiative also follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address at the WAVES Summit in May 2025, where he highlighted the live entertainment industry's untapped potential as a driver of investment, tourism, and cultural influence.
Each state has been asked to appoint a coordinating agency or officer for live events, with Maharashtra designating DGIPR for this crucial role. The resolution emphasizes that since live entertainment involves multiple departments, all relevant state agencies must provide necessary cooperation to DGIPR to ensure successful implementation of the action plan.
