SRINAGAR — Multi-tier security cover and comprehensive administrative arrangements have been put in place as the Kashmir Valley prepares to host its inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK 2026), themed "Rang-e-Cinema," running from September 7 to 10.

The four-day marquee event will showcase 135 curated films from 41 countries across key venues in Srinagar, Jammu, and Gulmarg. Jointly organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Information and Public Relations and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), the event aims to revive the region's historic relationship with global cinema and encourage a thriving local creative industry.

Heavy Security & Comprehensive Logistics

Senior police and security officials conducted detailed reviews of security protocols across all designated event hubs. Key measures include access control, high-definition CCTV surveillance, traffic regulation, and route clearances by Road Opening Parties (ROPs) to ensure smooth transit for international delegates, film directors, actors, and dignitaries.

To facilitate visiting artists and guests, the J&K administration has designated 50 civil service officers as dedicated liaison officers. Full logistics—ranging from airport receptions, medical support, traffic management, to civic amenities—have been coordinated across multiple state departments including Tourism, Culture, Handicrafts, and Transport.

A Global Selection from 1,100 Submissions

The inaugural festival received over 1,100 film submissions from more than 80 nations. Out of these, 135 films were selected. Host country India leads the lineup with 64 entries, followed by France with 13 films and Iran with eight. Other featured nations include Argentina, Spain, Brazil, Germany, Russia, the United States, South Korea, Türkiye, Sweden, Qatar, and Colombia.

Screenings will be held at iconic locations, including the primary hub—Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) on Dal Lake—as well as INOX Multiplex in Srinagar, Movie Time Cinemas at KC Central in Jammu, and the Gulmarg Convention Centre. A major highlight of the festival will be a special floating cinema screen on Dal Lake, offering Shikara passengers a unique screening experience.

Empowering Local Filmmaking Ecosystem

A standalone highlight section, "J&K Select," will feature stories rooted in the region. Eligibility spans projects produced by J&K-based production houses, directed by local residents, filmed predominantly within the Union Territory, or focused on the region's cultural heritage and history.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized that the festival serves as a gateway to position J&K beyond a mere shooting location, turning it into a collaborative hub for cinematic talent, film-related tourism, and local handicraft and culinary promotion.