Apply for FTII NER Script Lab and Short Film Grant for Writers in India
Organisation Name:
Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune
Application Deadline:
25 August 2026
About Organisation
The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune is a Government of India institution under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, established in 1960 to provide professional education and training in film and television. Based in Pune, FTII offers programmes across areas including direction, screenplay writing, cinematography, editing, sound, acting and production design. The institute also conducts specialised short-term and professional development initiatives to support emerging filmmakers and storytellers. Through its educational and creative programmes, FTII promotes cinematic learning, storytelling and technical excellence. The institute plays an important role in developing creative talent and strengthening film and television education in India.
About the Grant
The FTII NER Script Lab and Short Film Grant supports writers from India’s eight North Eastern states in developing short-film stories rooted in the region’s culture, history, traditions, folklore, art and social life. The programme selects 10 writers for a hybrid Script Lab involving research, mentorship, field immersion and intensive script development at FTII, Pune. Each selected film may receive a production grant of up to ₹16 lakh, while selected writers receive a ₹35,000 stipend. The programme also provides eligible travel, accommodation and food support. The initiative aims to encourage authentic regional storytelling and help transform culturally rooted ideas into professionally developed short-film scripts.
Who can Apply?
The programme is intended for writers from India’s eight North Eastern states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. Applicants must hold domicile of one of these states and be more than 18 and less than 35 years old as of 5 August 2026. Previous screenwriting experience is desirable but not mandatory. Applicants should demonstrate strong writing ability and a meaningful connection with the cultural and social realities of their state. They should be able to provide writing samples and explain their cultural connection and interest in developing stories from the North Eastern Region.
How to Apply?
Confirm that you meet the domicile and age requirements. Prepare your CV or biodata, writing samples, cultural connection essay and details of relevant awards or recognition. If your writing sample is in a North Eastern language, provide an English translation as required. A recommendation letter from a filmmaker of repute is encouraged but not mandatory. Complete the prescribed FTII application form and submit the required documents before the deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 25 August 2026
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
