The government of India intends to build the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) as a National Centre of Excellence in Mumbai which will focus on the AVGC-XR (animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, and extended reality) sector similar to IITs and IIMs models. This project has been launched at Jio World Centre during the Wave Summit to develop India into a worldwide frontrunner in media entertainment by educating and researching creative digital media and fostering innovative practices.

IICT strengthens its arrangement with NVIDIA, Google, Apple, Microsoft, Star India, Meta and Adobe to build an international standard educational institution. Microsoft along with Google and Meta joined forces with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting through a MoU that was signed while I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw observed. The representatives from both IICT and industry partners initiated this project through official Letters of Intent.

The funding of ?400 crore for IICT originates from Prime Minister Narendra Modi whereas the Maharashtra government allocates ten acres of land situated at Mumbai Film City to establish its permanent campus. Phase 1 of NFDC Building at Pedder Road is actively serving students through its modern facilities which include gaming labs and animation studios combined with virtual production equipment and immersive studios and smart classrooms and edit suites. IIICT will begin its educational offerings by delivering seven tailored courses together with trainer training programs that establish future standards in academics and practical application.

I&B Minister Vaishnaw said, “This is major leap towards empowering India’s AVGC-XR ecosystem,” highlighting India’s potential to lead globally in media and entertainment. He added, “We have started an initiative which is completely novel in the world of film and entertainment. This (initiative) follows the vision of our Prime Minister that India can take the global lead in the world in the media and entertainment sector.” He expressed gratitude to industry partners, stating, “I thank all the industry partners and their top management for expressing their willingness to partner with us for this initiative.”

The second phase expands activities at Goregaon while developing regional centers to increase access throughout the area. The institution will support training programs along with incubation facilities and innovation initiatives and policy development which will open new opportunities for people interested in AVGC-XR entrepreneurship.