National Film Awards

• Context (IE): The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B) has made significant changes to the National Film Awards.

Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director

• This award was previously associated with former PM Indira Gandhi and will now be known as the “Best Debut Film of a Director”.
• The connection between Indira Gandhi and this award dates back to the 28th National Film Awards in 1980.

Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration

• This award, previously named after the legendary actor Nargis Dutt, has been rechristened as the “Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social, and Environmental Values”.

• Nargis Dutt’s name became synonymous with the National Film Awards during the 13th edition in 1965, where she was honoured for the best feature film category.

Other Changes

• The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recognising lifetime contributions to cinema, now carries a prize of Rs 15 lakh (increased from Rs 10 lakh).
• The Swarn Kamal and Rajat Kamal awards have also seen an increase in prize money to Rs 3 lakh and Rs 2 lakh, respectively.
• The awards for “Best Animation Film” and “Best Special Effects” have been combined into a new category called “Best AVGC (animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics) Film”.
• Changes have also been made in the non-feature film category, including the introduction of a new award for the “Best Script”.
• The award for the “Best Feature Film” in each language specified in Schedule VIII of the Constitution has been renamed as the “Best (name of the language) Feature Film”.
• These modifications aim to streamline and enhance the recognition of excellence in Indian cinema.

Why was there a need to change these awards?

• Relevance and Sensitivity: Renaming these awards allows the focus to shift from individual personalities to the artistic achievements of filmmakers and their contributions to cinema.
• Inclusivity and Representation: The new names emphasise the essence of the awards without being tied to specific individuals.
• Streamlining and Clarity: Simplifying award names makes it easier for audiences, filmmakers, and industry professionals to understand their purpose.
  • The introduction of the “Best AVGC Film” category combines animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics, streamlining recognition for these creative fields.
• Financial Recognition: Enhancing the monetary value of awards encourages excellence and dedication in filmmaking.
• Adapting to Industry Changes: New categories and criteria reflect the changing landscape of Indian cinema.
  • The addition of the “Best Script” award in the non-feature film category recognises the importance of storytelling.

National Film Awards The National Film Awards was established in 1954. Administered by the Indian Directorate of Film Festivals since 1973. The primary goal was to encourage the furthering of Indian art and culture through cinema. Along with the International Film Festival of India and the Indian Panorama, the National Film Awards celebrate outstanding contributions to Indian cinema. The National Film Awards are presented in two main categories: Feature Films and Non-Feature Films. These awards recognise merit across various regions and languages of India. Selection Process Every year, a national panel appointed by the government selects the winning entries. The award ceremony takes place in New Delhi, where the President presents the awards. Following this, the National Film Festival screens the award-winning films for the public.