CINEMATOGRAPH
(CERTIFICATION) RULES, 2024 – GOVERNANCE
News:
Government notifies the
Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024 to comprehensively improve the film
certification process
What's
in the news?
●
In accordance with the Cinematograph
(Amendment) Act, 2023, the Ministry of
Information and Broadcasting has introduced the Cinematograph
(Certification) Rules, 2024, replacing the obsolete rules from 1983.
Cinematograph
(Certification) Rules, 2024:
Aim:
●
To modernize
and adapt to evolving technologies and advancements in the film industry to
ensure relevance and efficiency.
Key
Aspects:
1.
Alignment with Online Certification Processes:
●
The rules have been extensively revised to
align with online certification processes, enhancing transparency, efficiency,
and ease of operation for the film sector.
2.
Reduction in Certification Time-Lines:
●
Time-lines for film certification
processing have been shortened by adopting fully digital processes, eliminating
transactional delays.
3.
Accessibility Features for Films:
●
Films are mandated to include
accessibility features for certification, ensuring inclusivity for disabled individuals as per specified
guidelines.
4.
Introduction of Age-Based Certification:
●
The existing UA category is now subdivided
into three age-based categories: UA 7+,
UA 13+, and UA 16+, aiding parents or guardians in determining suitable
content for children.
5.
Enhanced Gender Representation:
●
The rules advocate for greater representation of women in the
Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Board and Advisory Panels, promoting
diversity in decision-making.
6.
System for Priority Screening of Films:
●
Priority screening is introduced to
expedite the certification process, especially for filmmakers with urgent commitments.
7.
Perpetual Validity of Certificates:
●
Certificates issued by the CBFC are now valid indefinitely, removing the
previous 10-year restriction.
8.
Recertification for Television Broadcast:
●
Edited films intended for television
broadcast must undergo recertification, allowing only films with Unrestricted
Public Exhibition category certification to be aired.
Significance:
●
The overhaul of the rules recognizes
advancements in film technology and evolving audience demographics.
●
Complementing the amendments to the
Cinematograph Act in 2023, these new rules simplify the certification process,
making it contemporary and globally competitive.