India’s live events sector grew 44% over the past year, with about 34,000 events held and more than one crore (10 million) livelihoods supported, according to Chanchal Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB). exchange4media reported the remarks on 8 October 2026.
The government aims to double the sector by 2030, potentially creating 15–20 million direct and ancillary jobs.
What Was Discussed at the Live Events Development Cell Meeting?
Kumar spoke at the 5th meeting of the Live Events Development Cell (LEDC), which includes 14 Central Ministries and Departments, 10 States and UTs, and 21 industry bodies. He called it “one of the finest examples of cooperation between industry, States and the Centre.”
The meeting reviewed the Single Window Portal on the India Cine Hub. The number of States and UTs with appointed Nodal Officers rose from 16 to 29. A Model Executive Order shared on 13 March 2026 has been adopted by five States so far.
What Reforms Could Affect Event Organisers?
Industry asked Central Ministries for group visas and customs duty exemptions for show equipment, skilling via NSQF, promotion of event-based tourism, GST rationalisation, CSR alignment, VGF and blended finance, and MSME recognition. Next-generation reforms discussed include a single national music licence with notified tariffs, notified entertainment precincts under the Noise Pollution Rules, 2000, and relaxed caps on foreign remittances for international artists.
The Archaeological Survey of India and the Sports Authority of India issued SOPs for events at their sites, and major venues are to be pre-approved so organisers avoid repeated permissions. A draft framework on brownfield and greenfield venue development aims to address the shortage of purpose-built venues.
Industry Reaction and Expert Commentary
No separate trade-body comment was found beyond the meeting report. Two guidelines, on inclusivity and safety of women and divyang-jan, and a Green Concert Protocol, are slated for launch at WAVES 2027.
What Happens Next?
States are being urged to adopt the Model Executive Order faster, link licensing systems to the portal and onboard venues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did India’s live events sector grow?
44% over the past year, with about 34,000 events, per MIB Secretary Chanchal Kumar.
What is the government’s target?
To double the sector by 2030, potentially creating 15–20 million direct and ancillary jobs.
What is the Live Events Development Cell?
A body of 14 Central Ministries and Departments, 10 States and UTs, and 21 industry bodies working on live events reforms.
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