Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha inaugurated the joint edition of the Jammu Film Festival (JFF) and The International Film Festival of Srinagar (TIFFS), held at the Aquaplex Crown, Bagh-e-Bahu in Jammu. The event marked a significant cultural milestone for Jammu and Kashmir, bringing together filmmakers, artists, and cinema enthusiasts from across the globe. In his address, he extended his congratulations to the organisers and participants, noting that the inclusion of entries from over 50 countries highlighted the vibrant, peaceful, and prosperous transformation of Jammu and Kashmir under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Shri Manoj Sinha emphasised the close link between peace, cultural vibrancy, and economic prosperity, pointing out that these elements were now firmly established in the Union Territory’s development. He also warned those attempting to disrupt the region’s hard-won peace, stating that law enforcement agencies were closely monitoring anti-India elements. He made it clear that any efforts to destabilise the region or compromise national integrity would be met with strict action. The Lieutenant Governor urged filmmakers to use their craft to inspire positive change and uphold national values. He stressed that cinema should not only entertain but also serve as a tool for social transformation, addressing critical issues such as inequality, social justice, and the eradication of social evils. He noted that good cinema strikes a balance between entertainment and social relevance, helping to shape public consciousness and encourage thoughtful discussions on societal issues. He also highlighted the government’s progressive film policy, which includes initiatives such as the operationalization of cinema halls in Kashmir, incentives for filmmakers, and the establishment of a Single Window Portal for film production. He assured that Jammu and Kashmir would host the prestigious International Film Festival next year, aiming to position the region as a global hub for film production. He also paid homage to Shri Mushtaq Kak, a legendary figure in Jammu and Kashmir’s theatre and film industry, recalling his immense contribution to regional and national cinema. He also commended the efforts of Vomedh Organisation for promoting cinema in the region and honoured key stakeholders, including filmmaker and actor Shri Pankaj Khajuria, who was presented with the Mushtaq Kak Award for his outstanding contributions to the industry. The joint film festival is expected to foster greater collaboration among filmmakers and provide a platform for showcasing diverse cinematic talent from around the world.