AI Adoption Rises Among Indian Screenwriters as Pay Gaps Persist

Variety

by Naman Ramachandran

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being adopted by Indian screenwriters, despite lingering concerns about pay, credit, and professional recognition. According to "The Right Draft: 2026," a report by Tulsea and Ormax Media, 41% of surveyed screenwriters use AI tools at least sometimes in their work. While many view AI as helpful during early stages like pitches and drafting, nearly 70% feel uncomfortable publicly revealing its use. Despite these mixed sentiments, the study highlights that AI's influence is growing across age groups, with half of respondents not seeing it as a career threat. The report also sheds light on the challenges faced by screenwriters. Over 74% feel underpaid, up from 63% in 2023, and many struggle with delayed payments and lack of profit-sharing opportunities. Credit issues persist too, with over half disagreeing that writers receive fair recognition. Structural problems like poor mentorship access (only 19%) and ineffective grievance mechanisms further compound these challenges. Experts emphasize the need for systemic changes to address these "stubborn constants." The report underscores the industry's reliance on star power over script quality, particularly in theatrical films where only 6% believe scripts are valued. This decline in script valuation and lack of infrastructure highlight the urgent need for stronger creator-friendly systems to support screenwriters. By analyzing writer sentiment across key areas like pay, credit, and mentorship, the report aims to guide industry reforms. As AI continues to reshape storytelling, addressing these systemic issues is crucial for fostering a fairer ecosystem where creativity thrives. This matters significantly for entertainment, as a thriving screenwriting profession is essential for compelling content creation. Ultimately, "The Right Draft" serves as a call to action for the industry to align processes with creator needs, ensuring that writers are fairly compensated, credited, and supported. Addressing these challenges will not only empower screenwriters but also enhance the quality

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Originally published on Variety on 2/14/2026