Hello Meghalaya: Pioneering State-Owned OTT Platform

Launch and Objectives of 'Hello Meghalaya'

• Hello Meghalaya launched on July 11, 2024, by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma
• Second state-owned OTT platform in India, after Kerala's CSpace
• Aims to promote local content creators, filmmakers, and musicians
• Provides a dedicated space for showcasing Meghalayan talent
• Focuses on preserving and promoting the state's cultural heritage
• Targets to create job opportunities and support local languages

Financial Incentives and Support

• Filmmakers can receive up to Rs 5 lakh per film
• Additional funding available for nationally or internationally acclaimed projects
• Content creators can earn Rs 18,000 monthly for maximum uploads
• Revenue model based on viewership for increased earnings
• Packages available for short video and short film producers
• Government exploring tax considerations to reduce movie ticket prices
• Plans to establish theatres in various districts for screening local content

Impact on Local Artists and Culture

• Builds on success of Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP)
• 3,000 musicians currently earning through MGMP
• Formal collaboration announced between MGMP and Hard Rock Cafe
• Platform to stream live events like state football league matches and music festivals
• Provides avenue for minor communities to tell their stories
• Supports efforts to include local languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution
• Offers hope to local filmmakers struggling with cinema closures and outdated distribution methods

Future Plans and Expansion

• Gradual involvement of private players
• Aims to expand beyond Meghalaya to the entire Northeast region
• Plans to cater to quality content in other languages
• Government exploring additional support measures for the platform's growth
• Potential to create a sustainable ecosystem for artists
• Ambition to showcase Meghalayan talent on a global stage