Chandigarh: In a significant development to streamline filmmaking processes, Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Anurag Singh Thakur, declared the establishment of a regional facilitation office of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in Chandigarh. The announcement, made during the Chitra Bharati Film Festival’s closing ceremony in Chandigarh, aims to enhance the ease of doing business for filmmakers in the region.
Thakur emphasized that the CBFC facilitation office in Chandigarh will provide regional filmmakers with the convenience of screening their films and submitting necessary modifications without the need to travel to Delhi or Mumbai. This move is expected to strengthen the Punjabi film industry and expedite the certification process, fostering a more efficient filmmaking environment.
Underlining the global recognition of Indian cinema, Thakur stated, “Today, India is being viewed as a content hub, and we are becoming the preferred country for both shooting and post-production for international films.” He expressed confidence in the storytelling potential of films from the Punjab region.
The Minister reaffirmed the commitment to making film halls more accessible for specially-abled film enthusiasts, seeking input from stakeholders to formulate guidelines ensuring equal opportunities for people with hearing and visual impairments to enjoy films.
Addressing the menace of piracy, Thakur highlighted recent changes in the Cinematograph Act to prevent film piracy. Special nodal officers will be appointed at all CBFC centers to actively combat piracy, recognizing it as a significant threat to the film industry and the global community.
Congratulating the organizers of the Chitra Bharati Film Festival, Thakur commended their efforts to promote young talent and encourage the creation of meaningful films reflecting India’s rich culture and heritage. He expressed anticipation of seeing these films in prominent film festivals worldwide in the near future.