Application for Subsidy on Web Series/OTT

The "Application for Subsidy on Web Series/OTT" scheme has been introduced by the Culture and Archaeology Department, Government of Chhattisgarh under the Chhattisgarh Film Policy, 2021 by the Government of Chhattisgarh to promote the production of high-quality web series and encourage digital content creation on OTT platforms. The service enables eligible producers to apply online for subsidy benefits for web series released on notified OTT platforms. It aims to strengthen the state's film industry by encouraging the participation of local artists and technicians, while promoting Chhattisgarh’s culture, heritage, tourism, and identity through digital entertainment content. The initiative also provides additional incentives to productions that offer significant opportunities to artists from Chhattisgarh, thereby fostering local talent, generating employment, and enhancing the state's presence in the growing OTT ecosystem.

• Attractive discounts shall be provided on accommodation bookings in units operated by the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board.
• Subsidy benefits shall be available for eligible Web Series released on the prescribed OTT platforms.
• In each financial year, subsidy benefits shall be extended to a minimum of 20 eligible Web Series projects released on the notified OTT platforms.
• Producers providing opportunities to local artists from Chhattisgarh in their Web Series may be eligible for an additional grant.

1. A minimum of 20% of the supporting artists, technical crew, assistant artists, and ground staff engaged in the Web Series/OTT production must be permanent residents of Chhattisgarh.
2. The Web Series must be released on one of the prescribed OTT platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, Zee5, Sony LIV, VOOT, MX Player, ALT Balaji, Eros Now, Jio Studios, Flipkart Video, Apple TV, Shemaroo, Arre, or any other platform notified by the Government.
3. At least 50% shooting must be completed in Chhattisgarh then eligible for subsidy up to ₹50 lakh or 25% of the total production cost, whichever is lower and at least 75% shooting must be completed in Chhattisgarh then eligible for subsidy up to up to ₹1 crore or 25% of the total production cost, whichever is lower.

Online

Application Process:

Step 1: Portal Access and Login
The applicant (or the authorized operator) must visit the Sewa Setu Portal, and login using either their Citizen credentials or through the Lok Sewa Kendra (LSK) login system to proceed with the application.
Step 2: Application Submission
The user must navigate to the application form of the scheme that they wish to apply for. In the form, enter all the required details accurately. In the form, fill in all the mandatory fields and upload all the mandatory documents in the specified format and size. Ensure that all documents are clear, legible, and in the accepted file format before uploading.
Once all required documents are successfully uploaded and the entered information is verified by the applicant, they must finally submit the application.
Step 3: Application Reference Number Generation
The portal generates an Application Reference Number (ARN). The applicant should save the ARN for all future correspondence and status tracking regarding their submitted application.

Post-Application Process:

Step 1: Preliminary Verification by Film Facilitation Cell
The application is received online by the Film Facilitation Cell, where the submitted application details and supporting documents are examined for completeness and correctness. If any discrepancies are found, the application is returned to the applicant for necessary corrections.
Step 2: Approval process by Film Facilitation Cell
Based on the verification:
If the application is found satisfactory, it is forwarded to the Deputy Director for further examination.
If any discrepancies or deficiencies are identified, the application is returned to the applicant for correction.
If the application is found ineligible, it may be rejected with recorded remarks.
Step 3: Examination by Deputy Director
The Deputy Director reviews the application, committee recommendations, and all supporting documents to assess eligibility and compliance with the applicable guidelines.
Step 4: Approval by Deputy Director
Based on the examination, the Deputy Director may forward the application with recommendation to the Director for approval. If any required document is incomplete, the application is returned to the applicant for correction. If the application is found ineligible, it is rejected with suitable remarks.
Step 5: Review by Director
The Director scrutinizes the application, recommendations, and supporting documents to ensure that all requirements have been fulfilled and that the case is suitable for approval.
Step 6: Final Decision by Director
Based on the review:
If approved, the Director applies the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) through the system.
If additional information or documents are required, the application is returned to the applicant for correction.
If the application does not meet the prescribed criteria, it is rejected with remarks.
Step 7: Generation of Digitally Signed Sanction Order
Upon approval, a Digitally Signed Sanction Order is generated through the system using the Director's Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).
Step 8: Issuance of Sanction Order
The approved Digitally Signed Sanction Order is issued and made available to the applicant through the system.
Step 9: Disbursement of Subsidy through DBT
After issuance of the Sanction Order, the approved subsidy amount is processed through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism and transferred to the beneficiary's registered bank account.
Step 10: Notification to Chairman
Notification to Chairman, Chhattisgarh Film Vikas Nigam
Upon issuance of the Digitally Signed Sanction Order, the system notifies the Chairman, Chhattisgarh Film Vikas Nigam, regarding the approval and sanction of the application.
Step 11: Application Closure
After successful issuance of the Sanction Order and completion of all processing formalities, the application status is updated as Completed and the case is formally closed.

• Collector release film shooting NOC
• Upload Web Series/OTT Script (Hindi/English)
• Film Production house IMPPA/WIFPA/CCTPA Certificate
• CA Certified copy film cast of production(COP)
• UFO/Qube/K Sera Kera Certificate/Release Order(RO)
• Sensor Board Certificate
• Film Production House PAN/TAN/GST
• Shooting Days in CG/Total Shooting Days
• Total No. Of Artist/CG Local No. Of Artist
• Bank Passbook Details
• Attach Payment Proof and Contract/Agreement Copy for Each Artist Mentioned in the Above Table (for whom the subsidy is being claimed).
• Artist Residence Certificate / Birth Certificate / Education Certificate (Minimum 5 Years) / Aadhaar Card / Driving License.