Netflix launches India storytelling initiative, partners IICT, NFDC for creator skilling

Netflix on Wednesday launched the Netflix India Storytelling Initiative, a multi-phase programme aimed at developing creative talent in India through partnerships with government-backed institutions, as the streaming platform seeks to deepen its investment in the country’s entertainment ecosystem.

The announcement came after Netflix co-chief executive officer Ted Sarandos met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the growing global appeal of Indian stories and the company’s long-term commitment to India’s creative economy.

As part of the first phase of the initiative, Netflix has partnered with the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) to jointly develop courses in visual effects and media technology workflows. The company will also offer 100 scholarships to students enrolled in programmes covering interactive comics, character animation, gaming management, virtual art department content creation and other emerging creative disciplines.

Netflix has also signed a partnership with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to train audio description writers and voice artists, with the aim of making Indian films and series more accessible to audiences with visual and hearing impairments. The programme will be aligned with international accessibility standards as well as Indian storytelling traditions, the company said.

Focus on creative talent

Netflix said the initiative is intended to strengthen India’s talent pipeline across the animation, visual effects, gaming and comics (AVGC) sector through collaborations with educational institutions and industry bodies. The company said the programme supports the government’s broader vision of strengthening India’s creative economy and building a future-ready workforce.

“India has always been one of the world’s greatest storytelling nations,” Sarandos said.

“As we begin our next decade here, we believe our greatest investment is in the people who will tell India’s next generation of stories,” he said, adding that the initiative reflects Netflix’s long-term commitment to creating opportunities for emerging creators.

Netflix said it has produced more than 200 original titles and filmed across over 100 locations in India since entering the market over a decade ago. The company said it plans to expand its investment in talent development, production capabilities and industry partnerships as it enters its second decade in the country.

The announcement comes as the government sharpens its focus on the AVGC sector, which it sees as a key contributor to employment and the country’s creative economy. The sector has also been identified as a priority area under the government’s broader push to position India as a global hub for digital content creation.