Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur has announced the establishment of a regional facilitation office for the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in Chandigarh. This move aims to streamline the process for filmmakers in the Punjabi film industry, enhancing the ease of doing business and expediting film completion.
During the closing ceremony of the Chitra Bharati Film Festival in Chandigarh, Minister Thakur emphasized the significance of this initiative. He highlighted that filmmakers in the region will now have access to screenings and submission of film cuts/modifications locally, eliminating the need to travel to Delhi or Mumbai for CBFC certification.
Thakur expressed optimism about India’s growing prominence as a content hub, attracting international productions while also garnering acclaim for indigenous storytelling. He underscored the diversity of Indian cinema, which encompasses feature films, documentaries, short films, and serials, transcending linguistic barriers to resonate with global audiences.
Recognizing the potential of films originating from the Punjab region, Thakur affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the industry by establishing a CBFC facilitation office in Chandigarh. This initiative aims to streamline certification processes and accelerate film production timelines.
Additionally, Minister Thakur outlined the government’s efforts to enhance accessibility for differently-abled individuals in cinema halls. He emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of inclusivity, highlighting initiatives to provide accessible versions of films for individuals with hearing and visual impairments.
Addressing the issue of piracy, Thakur underscored recent amendments to the Cinematograph Act aimed at combating film piracy. Special nodal officers will be appointed at CBFC centers nationwide to address piracy complaints promptly, safeguarding the interests of the film industry and the global creative community.
