The Indian screenwriting landscape is experiencing a significant transformation with the increasing integration of artificial intelligence, as highlighted by the 'The Right Draft: 2026' report from Tulsea and Ormax Media. While AI tools are becoming commonplace, especially in early development stages, the industry continues to grapple with deep-seated problems concerning fair remuneration, proper recognition for writers, and the overarching perception of human creativity in an AI-driven era. This shift presents a complex scenario where technological advancement coexists with unresolved structural inequalities within the profession.
The Dual Nature of AI in Screenwriting: Opportunity and Apprehension
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how Indian screenwriters approach their craft, with a substantial portion of the community now incorporating AI tools into their creative process. The report, drawing insights from a comprehensive survey, indicates that many screenwriters find AI beneficial for tasks like developing pitches, gathering references, and drafting initial versions of scripts. This adoption signifies a growing acceptance of AI as a supplementary tool that can enhance efficiency and streamline certain aspects of script development. However, this technological integration is not without its complexities, as it introduces new challenges and exacerbates existing concerns within the industry, particularly regarding the value of human creative input.
Despite the functional benefits, a significant undercurrent of apprehension exists among screenwriters regarding AI's broader implications. A considerable majority express worry that the increasing presence of AI could diminish the perceived worth of human creativity in the eyes of producers and industry stakeholders. This sentiment is further amplified by the expectation from producers for quicker project turnarounds, fueled by the assumption that writers are leveraging AI for accelerated output. This pressure potentially undermines the time and effort traditionally associated with creative development. Moreover, many writers who utilize AI tools are reluctant to disclose this publicly, suggesting a societal or professional stigma attached to AI assistance. This reluctance points to an ongoing debate about the authenticity and originality of AI-assisted creative work, highlighting a critical tension between technological advancement and traditional creative values.
Enduring Challenges: Compensation, Credit, and Industry Support
Beyond the emerging landscape of AI, Indian screenwriters continue to confront long-standing systemic issues that significantly impact their professional lives and overall well-being. The 'The Right Draft: 2026' report reveals a deteriorating situation in compensation trends, with a notable increase in writers feeling inadequately paid for their contributions compared to previous years. A majority also face delays in receiving payments, often necessitating persistent follow-ups for contractually owed remuneration. This financial instability is compounded by the rarity of performance-linked compensation, leaving writers with limited opportunities to share in the success of their projects through profit-sharing or bonuses.
The issue of professional recognition and fair credit remains a significant pain point for screenwriters. More than half of the surveyed writers believe they do not receive equitable credit for their work, attributing this to a lack of defined industry standards that producers and platforms consistently adhere to. This problem is particularly acute in collaborative environments, where many writers report being given unequal credit when working with directors or more established senior writers. Furthermore, the theatrical film sector continues to undervalue scripts, prioritizing star power over the narrative foundation. While streaming and television platforms offer a slightly better environment, the perceived value of scripts on these platforms has also seen a decline. Compounding these issues is a noticeable decrease in access to mentorship and adequate support structures, with a vast majority feeling that the industry lacks the necessary infrastructure for writers' professional development, and few having access to effective grievance resolution mechanisms. These persistent challenges underscore the urgent need for structural reforms to foster a more equitable and supportive environment for screenwriters in India.