New Delhi: In a significant initiative to enhance global collaboration in the media and entertainment (M&E) sector, the Government of India hosted a high-level session on Waves 2025 at Sushma Swaraj Bhavan in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. Organized by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), the event aimed to engage the international community ahead of the World Audiovisual and Entertainment Summit (Waves) 2025, scheduled to take place in Mumbai from May 1-4, 2025.
The event was graced by Union Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar, Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Railways, and Electronics & IT Ashwini Vaishnaw, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan. Also present were Maharashtra’s Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, Secretary of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Sanjay Jaju, and around 100 foreign ambassadors and high commissioners.
A major highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the Maharashtra government, aimed at strengthening collaboration in media, entertainment, and digital outreach.
Ministerial Addresses on the Future of Media and Entertainment
Addressing the session, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated, “The intersection of creativity, media, and technology is transforming the global media landscape and reaching new levels of convergence.” He emphasized that content creators across sectors could produce high-value content, which is the core vision of Waves 2025. “We are inviting some of the biggest names in technology, media, and entertainment to Waves 2025 in Mumbai from May 1 to 4, 2025,” he added. Highlighting India’s efforts in the global arena, he urged stakeholders to participate in Waves 2025 and contribute to fostering the global creator economy.
Union Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar underscored the importance of Waves as a platform for discussion, collaboration, and innovation in the media and entertainment industry. “This event will unite industry leaders, stakeholders, and innovators to explore opportunities, address challenges, and shape the future of the sector,” he said. He further noted that “economic and political rebalancing is moving towards cultural rebalancing. If we are not truly local, we cannot be truly global. Waves 2025 embodies this spirit.” Dr. Jaishankar also urged ambassadors and high commissioners to introduce their governments to the opportunities for global collaboration under Waves 2025.
In a special address, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis remarked, “Mumbai, India’s financial and entertainment capital, provides the perfect backdrop for Waves 2025, seamlessly blending ancient and modern cultural influences while fostering collaboration and cultural diplomacy in the media and entertainment sector.” He described Waves 2025 as a movement that highlights the evolving role of media in technological advancements and societal transformation. “Maharashtra is committed to fostering global partnerships that promote investment and innovation,” he added. Welcoming the establishment of the Indian Institute of Creative Technology, Fadnavis expressed optimism that “media will remain a force for good, shaping a future where technology and creativity inspire and connect the world.”
Strengthening the Global Media Landscape
In his concluding remarks, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan stated that the Waves 2025 Summit will open doors for joint ventures, co-productions, and business expansions, facilitating global media companies’ engagement with India’s creative sector. He reiterated the Indian government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for the media and entertainment industry by supporting ease of doing business, content localization, and infrastructure development.
Information & Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju emphasized that Waves 2025 is the world’s first comprehensive convergence platform for the media and entertainment sector. “Our goal is to bridge the gap between traditional and emerging media, foster global partnerships, and leverage India’s rich cultural heritage for content creation and technological innovation,” he stated.
Jaju detailed that the inaugural edition of Waves is designed to create a meaningful impact through multiple tracks. The Global Media Dialogue will feature ministers and policymakers, culminating in the Waves Declaration as a guiding policy document. The Thought Leaders Track will host knowledge-sharing sessions with industry experts. The Waves Exhibition will showcase storytelling innovations, immersive experiences, and advancements in the gaming sector. The Bharat Pavilion will highlight India’s media legacy and future prospects. Additionally, Waves Market will facilitate business networking, while the WaveAccelerator will provide mentorship and funding support for media startups. Waves Cultural will bring together diverse talents from India and across the world for a series of performances.
With the convergence of creativity, media, and technology at its core, Waves 2025 aims to redefine the global media landscape and establish India as a powerhouse in the evolving creator economy.
