The Karnataka government plans to implement a 2% cess on movie tickets and TV subscriptions to support welfare initiatives for cine and cultural workers. This move follows the Karnataka Cine and Cultural Activists (Welfare) Act, 2024, which establishes a dedicated welfare fund and board for social security in the entertainment and cultural sector.
The draft rules issued on September 24 confirm the 2% rate. The cess applies to:
-
All cinema tickets, including multiplexes
-
Subscription fees for television entertainment channels in Karnataka
Under the law, registration is mandatory for cine and cultural workers aged 18–60, including actors, musicians, dancers, technical staff, and other roles as defined by the government.
Registered members will be eligible for benefits like:
-
Accident and disability compensation
-
Medical reimbursements
-
Funeral and natural death benefits
-
Educational support for children
-
Maternity allowances
-
Pension schemes
Officials say this cess will provide financial security and welfare support to thousands of workers in Karnataka’s film and cultural sectors.
