New Delhi: Gujarat was named the Most Film-Friendly State at the 63rd National Film Awards here today. This is the first time that the Information and Broadcasting Ministry has bestowed this award in order to promote film tourism in states.

Film Festivals Director Senthil Rajan said: “We had 16 entries from different states, and this is a major step by the Indian government to promote film tourism in the states because this sort of an award will enthuse the states.”

He added: “We chose Gujarat primarily because of the efforts in the direction of ease of doing business and facilitation of films and towards the promotion of Indian cinema.”

A special mention was also given to Uttar Pradesh for its single window clearance efforts and incentives offered by the government, and to Kerala.

The awards were selected by a separate jury constituted by the Directorate of Film Festivals.