India fostering creator economy to highlight culture, heritage, innovation: Ashwini Vaishnaw

New Delhi: Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday said India was focused on developing the content creators' economy, showcasing the country's rich heritage and culture, and diversity of languages and literature.

In his video address at the inaugural event of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Vaishnaw said with the addition of technology and the development of the creator ecosystem, India can play a major role in the media and entertainment sector globally.

"We in India at this point in time are very much focused on developing content creators' economy. We have a very vibrant creators' economy where people are coming up with very innovative content showcasing some of the very rich heritage of India, the cuisines of India, the culture of India and the gems of Indian language and literature," he said.

Vaishnaw said India's creative economy has emerged as a USD 30 billion industry, contributing nearly 2.5% of GDP and providing livelihood to eight per cent of the workforce.

"With a thriving influencer marketing sector valued at Rs 3,375 crore and over 200,000 full-time content creators, this industry is a dynamic force driving India’s global aspirations," he said.

Vaishnaw said more cities, such as Guwahati, Kochi and Indore, are becoming creative epicentres, fueling a decentralised creative revolution.

India's 110 crore internet users and 70 crore social media users are driving the democratisation of creativity.

Vaishnaw said the creative economy has a profound influence that extends well beyond GDP growth and significantly impacts various sectors, including tourism, hospitality and technology, by supporting ancillary industries.

"Additionally, digital platforms empower marginalised voices, promoting social inclusion, diversity and the preservation of cultural heritage," he said.