The 2nd edition of the Creative Economic Forum 2024, Season 2, marked a significant milestone for India’s creative industries, drawing a notable assembly of panellists, dignitaries, and guests. The event, hosted by Ms. Supriya Suri, Founder of the Creative Economic Forum and President of Cinedarbaar, was held at the prestigious Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. This year’s forum centered on the theme “Roadmap for Creative Industries for Viksit Bharat 2047,” charting the future pathways for India’s creative sectors as the nation nears its 100th year of independence.

A Pioneering Platform for India’s Creative Economy

Cinedarbaar, the organizer of the forum, has established itself as an international platform dedicated to advancing the cultural and creative industries (CCI). The Creative Economic Forum serves as a pioneering event that brings together thought leaders, policymakers, artists, and entrepreneurs from various creative domains, including film, music, fashion, gaming, publishing, handicrafts, arts, and museums. The forum’s mission is to foster collaboration, dialogue, and innovation within India’s creative sectors, positioning them as key drivers for economic growth and cultural diplomacy.

A Stellar Lineup of High-Profile Panellists

The forum featured an impressive roster of distinguished panellists who are leaders in their respective fields:

• Lily Pandeya, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture
• Alison Barrett, MBE, Director India, British Council
• Hon’ble Justice Prathiba M. Singh, Delhi High Court
• Designer Anju Modi, celebrated for her contributions to Indian fashion
• Mr. Safir Anand, a prominent intellectual property expert
• Mr. Kapish Mehra, Managing Director of Rupa Publications
• Smt. Mugdha Sinha, IAS, Director General, Ministry of Tourism
• H.E. Ms. Bizunesh Meseret, Ambassador, Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
• H.E. Jason K.M. Hall, High Commissioner of Jamaica
• H.E. Mr. Robert Maxian, Ambassador, Embassy of the Slovak Republic, New Delhi
• Mr. Abhay Kumar, Deputy Director General, ICCR

This diverse group of panellists provided valuable insights into the intersections of culture, creativity, and commerce, offering a global perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing India’s creative industries.

Key Themes and Discussions: Shaping the Future of Creative Industries

The Creative Economic Forum 2024 focused on the roadmap for the creative industries in India, with an eye toward Viksit Bharat 2047. Key discussions revolved around several pivotal themes:

1. Intellectual Property and Innovation in Creative Industries

One of the main sessions emphasized the importance of building robust intellectual property frameworks to protect and promote innovation within the creative industries. Panellists discussed the role of intellectual property rights in fostering a secure environment for creators and entrepreneurs, thus enabling them to innovate and scale their businesses effectively.

2. The Impact of Creative Industries on Tourism

The forum highlighted the significant impact that creative industries have on tourism. With India’s rich cultural heritage and diverse artistic expressions, there is a vast potential for creative industries to boost tourism, generate revenue, and create job opportunities. Panellists explored strategies to integrate creative and cultural assets into tourism offerings, enhancing India’s appeal as a global tourist destination.

3. Expanding to Global Markets: Strategies for Growth

As India’s creative industries continue to grow, expanding to global markets remains a critical objective. The forum addressed the challenges and strategies for internationalization, including navigating global regulatory landscapes, leveraging digital platforms, and building cross-border collaborations. The discussions underscored the need for Indian creative enterprises to adapt and innovate to compete on the world stage.

4. Financing the Creative Economy

Access to finance remains a barrier for many creative entrepreneurs. The forum featured discussions on innovative financing models, including public-private partnerships, venture capital, and crowdfunding, tailored specifically for the creative sectors. Experts emphasized the importance of creating financial instruments that recognize the unique needs and potential of creative industries.

Inaugural Creative Global Voice of India Awards

A highlight of the forum was the launch of the Creative Global Voice of India Awards, an initiative that celebrates the achievements of individuals who embody creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. These awards honor those who have made significant contributions to the creative industries, inspiring others through their dedication and groundbreaking work. The award ceremony was a testament to the vibrant and dynamic nature of India’s creative sectors, acknowledging the role of creativity as a catalyst for societal change.

An Evening of Networking and Celebration

The event concluded with a lavish dinner hosted by Le Meridien Hotel, New Delhi, where guests from Delhi’s cultural and creative circles mingled, networked, and celebrated the forum’s success. The dinner provided an opportunity for attendees to engage in informal discussions, fostering new connections and potential collaborations among leaders of India’s creative economy.

Looking Ahead: The Future of India’s Creative Industries

As India approaches its centenary of independence, the Creative Economic Forum 2024 has set a bold vision for the future of the nation’s creative sectors. The forum’s discussions and insights will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the policies and strategies that will guide India’s creative industries toward a prosperous and sustainable future. By aligning with the theme of Viksit Bharat 2047, the forum not only celebrates the current achievements of the creative economy but also lays the groundwork for its continued growth and global influence.