I&B Ministry Sets Up Cell to Boost Concert Economy

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has established a Live Events Development Cell (LEDC) to facilitate the expansion of India’s fast-growing “concert economy”. The initiative aims to strengthen the live events ecosystem, boost employment generation, and enhance tourism, positioning India as a major global destination for live entertainment.

Rising Economic Significance of Live Events

India’s organised live events industry is witnessing rapid growth and is emerging as a key pillar of the media and entertainment sector. The market was valued at ₹20,861 crore in 2024, recording a growth rate of 15 per cent, higher than several traditional media segments. With an expected compound annual growth rate of 18 per cent, the sector is projected to place India among the leading global live entertainment hubs by 2030, according to government estimates.

Role and Structure of the LEDC

The Live Events Development Cell was constituted in July 2025 under the direction of “Ashwini Vaishnaw”. Designed as a single-window facilitation mechanism, the LEDC brings together representatives from the Central and State governments, industry associations, music rights societies and major event companies. The cell is expected to streamline approvals, improve coordination, and address regulatory and logistical challenges faced by organisers.

Employment and Tourism Impact

The live events sector currently supports over 10 million jobs across its value chain. A single large-format live event can generate more than 15,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities, spanning event management, hospitality, transport, security, and creative services. Addressing the WAVES Summit in May 2025, “Narendra Modi” highlighted the untapped potential of live entertainment as a driver of jobs, investment, tourism and India’s cultural influence globally.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• LEDC was constituted in July 2025.
• India’s organised live events market was valued at ₹20,861 crore in 2024.
• The sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of 18%.
• Live events generate large-scale direct and indirect employment.

Growth Beyond Metros

Data from a BookMyShow report for January–November 2025 shows that Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are emerging as major cultural hubs. Northeastern cities recorded sharp growth in live entertainment footfalls, with increases of 213 per cent in Shillong, 188 per cent in Guwahati and 143 per cent in Kokrajhar. Visakhapatnam registered the highest growth at 490 per cent, followed by Vadodara at 230 per cent. Overall consumption of live entertainment rose by 17 per cent, theatre attendance increased by 45 per cent, and inter-city travel for live events grew by 18 per cent, underscoring renewed public engagement with live cultural experiences.