The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Friday notified the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024 to streamline and modernize the film certification process for the digital age, keeping pace with the emerging technologies and advancement in film sector.
The ministry and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) undertook extensive consultations with filmmakers, cinema owners, disability rights organizations, NGOs, film industry bodies, general public and other stakeholders.
According to a press release, the comprehensive revision of the Rules has been done to fully align it with the adoption of online certification processes, which will ensure enhanced transparency, efficiency and ease-of-doing business for the film industry.
“Reduction in time-lines for the processing of film certification and adopting complete digital processes for eliminating all transactional time; provision of accessibility features for certification to make watching films inclusive for disabled persons; and greater representation of women in CBFC board and advisory panels are some of the key features of the revision of the Rules,” it said.
The latest move has also brought introduction of age-based categories of certification by further sub-dividing the existing UA category into three age-based categories — seven years (UA 7+), 13 years (UA 13+), and 16 years (UA 16+), instead of 12 years.
The principle Rules were first notified by the government in 1983 and have been amended from time to time. However, acknowledging the significant advancement in film technology, audience demographics, and content distribution methods for the last 40 years, the new set of rules with overhaul changes are being introduced to better cater to the ever evolving need of our film industry.
“These updated regulations will foster a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive film certification process, supporting the continued growth and success of Indian cinema,” the release added.