In a major move to streamline the film certification process, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced that the timeline for film certification will now be reduced to just 18 days, thanks to the introduction of a new online system. This initiative aims to make the certification process faster and more efficient for filmmakers, ensuring quicker turnarounds for movie releases.
A Game-Changer for the Indian Film Industry
Film certification, a crucial part of the filmmaking process, has traditionally taken weeks, often causing delays in movie releases and disrupting schedules for filmmakers, distributors, and audiences alike. With the introduction of this new online system, the Ministry aims to make this time-consuming process much more efficient, reducing the certification timeline from several weeks to just 18 days.
This change comes as part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to modernize the film certification system, ensuring that it is more accessible and quicker for everyone involved. The online system will now allow filmmakers to submit their films digitally, track their application status, and receive certification in a significantly reduced timeframe.
How the Online System Works
The new online system is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to all filmmakers, from big production houses to independent filmmakers. The process involves submitting films digitally to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), where they will be reviewed, evaluated, and certified based on various criteria, including content guidelines, language, and themes.
Once a film is submitted, the CBFC will conduct a thorough review, which now takes no more than 18 days. This is a significant reduction compared to the previous timeline, which could extend for several weeks or even months in some cases. The system will also provide real-time updates on the status of the certification process, allowing filmmakers to stay informed every step of the way.
Benefits for the Film Industry
The new system is expected to bring a host of benefits to the Indian film industry:
- Faster Film Releases: With certification now taking only 18 days, filmmakers will be able to release their films more quickly, minimizing delays and aligning better with their marketing and distribution schedules.
- Improved Accessibility: The online platform makes it easier for filmmakers from all corners of India, including independent filmmakers, to submit their films without the need for in-person visits or complicated paperwork.
- Reduced Backlog: By shortening the review time and making the process more efficient, the online system will help reduce the backlog of films awaiting certification, allowing for a smoother flow of film approvals.
- Transparency and Tracking: Filmmakers can track the progress of their applications in real time, ensuring greater transparency in the certification process.
Support for Independent Filmmakers
One of the most significant advantages of this new system is its potential to support independent filmmakers, who often face challenges navigating the traditional film certification process. By digitizing the system and making it more accessible, the Ministry hopes to give a fairer opportunity for smaller and independent films to receive timely certification, ensuring that these films are not held back due to lengthy certification delays
