The AI Landscape
Editorial
May, 2025
India’s storytelling tradition, woven from its illustrious history and rich cultural heritage, has given the world some of its most beloved literature and art forms. From the epic tales of the Ramayan and Mahabharat to the Panchatantra’s timeless fables, India’s narrative prowess has been inspiring audiences globally. Today, this legacy continues to thrive in the media and entertainment (M&E) industry, which has emerged as a significant contributor to the country’s economy. Currently valued at $29.4 billion and contributing significantly to India’s GDP, the industry is projected to grow to $36.1 billion by 2027, driven by increasing consumer demand, technological advancements, and innovative content creation. The Government of India has been actively promoting the M&E sector, recognising its potential as a sunrise industry. Initiatives aimed at fostering growth, innovation, and employment opportunities are poised to drive considerable expansion. The proliferation of OTT (over-the-top) platforms has democratised access to quality content, with initiatives like Prasar Bharati’s Waves OTT exemplifying the shift towards digital entertainment. By leveraging technology, these platforms are reaching wider audiences and showcasing India’s rich cultural diversity. The WAVES (World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit) in Mumbai promises to be a landmark event for India’s entertainment industry. By bringing together global industry leaders, entertainment icons, and creative minds, WAVES aims to establish India as a premier hub for media and entertainment. This summit will foster collaboration, drive innovation, and unlock new opportunities for growth, cementing India’s position as a global content creator and entertainment technology leader. As India continues to harness the potential of its Media and Entertainment (M&E) sector, the future looks promising. With initiatives like WAVES poised to become a watershed moment in the industry's evolution, the stage is set for unprecedented growth, innovation, and global recognition. By leveraging technology, creativity, and strategic investments, India's M&E sector is ready to make a lasting impact on the global stage. The sector's growth is driven by increasing demand for digital content, advancements in technology, and a thriving startup ecosystem. India's diverse market, rich cultural heritage, and skilled workforce position it for global leadership in M&E. WAVES and similar initiatives can catalyse this growth, fostering innovation, collaboration, and investment. With a strong foundation in film, television, and digital media, India's M&E sector is poised to expand its global footprint, creating new opportunities for creators, businesses, and audiences alike. By embracing emerging trends like streaming, gaming, and virtual reality, India can solidify its position as a major player in the global M&E landscape. Yojana's current issue seeks to bring together insightful articles from domain experts and specialists who share their expertise on the burgeoning media and entertainment sector, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of its growth, innovations, and impact on India's socio-economic landscape.