Feb 05, 2026 12:39pm IST
New Online Certification System Enables I&B Ministry To Certify Feature Films In 18 Days
The implementation of the new online certification system has turned out to be a great help for the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, as it reduces the average time of certification of feature films by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to 18 working days and three working days for short films.
The Lok Sabha was informed by the Ministry that the CBFC functions as per the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024. The prescribed time for the certification of the film is 48 working days under Rule 37. “With the implementation of the Online Certification System, the present average time taken for certification is 18 working days for feature films and 3 working days for short films,” the official statement reads.
Related Stories
The ministry also highlighted that the CBFC has certified 71,963 films from 2020-21 to 2024-25.
"Cuts or modifications are recommended only if the content violates statutory parameters concerning sovereignty and integrity of India, security, public order, decency, morality, defamation, contempt of court or incitement to offence," shared the Ministry.
It also shared the data of year-wise theatrical releases certified by the CBFC, and the decisions challenged before the Revising Committees (RC) and various High Courts (HC) since the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal’s abolition in 2021.
According to the Cinematograph Act, filmmakers can appeal if they don’t agree with the Board’s decision. "The Cinematograph Act provides for an appeal against the order of the Board before the High Court. Such cases are dealt in accordance with the outcome of the judicial proceedings," the Ministry remarked.
“The Government is committed to maintaining a transparent and accountable certification process, while protecting creative freedom and discharging its obligations under the Cinematograph Act,” added the Ministry.
Comments are moderated. They may be edited for clarity and reprinting in whole or in part in Variety publications.