Netflix launches NextGen India Writers' Program to discover emerging storytellers

Netflix has launched the Netflix NextGen India Writers' Program, a talent development initiative aimed at identifying and mentoring emerging screenwriters in India as it expands its investment in original local storytelling.

Open to writers with up to three years of professional writing experience, the two-month hybrid programme will offer mentorship, workshops and guidance from industry experts. Participants will develop original series concepts into professionally structured series bibles, gaining insight into the process of taking an idea from concept to screen. Applications are open from July 1 to September 1, 2026, with India becoming the third country, after France and the Netherlands, to host the global initiative.

The programme builds on Netflix India's efforts to back emerging creative talent. The streamer highlighted The Railway Men, directed by Shiv Rawail, as an example of its support for new voices. It also pointed to its upcoming series Operation Safed Sagar, created by Abhijeet Singh Parmar, Kushal Srivastava, Oni Sen and Mehboob Pal Singh Brar, as part of its continued investment in emerging creators.


Announcing the programme, Monika Shergill, Vice President, Content, Netflix India, said: “Every great story begins with a writer. In a country as creatively rich and diverse as India, we know there are countless people with extraordinary stories to tell who simply haven’t had the opportunity yet. The Netflix NextGen India Writers’ Program is our way of discovering those voices early, investing in their potential, and giving them the space to develop their craft and bring their stories to life. We believe the next chapter of Indian entertainment will be shaped by bold new storytellers with fresh perspectives and distinctive voices. Because the next great Indian story could come from anywhere, and we can’t wait to discover it.”