NEW DELHI: The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is planning to adopt an online system for the certification process of films in India.

Information and Broadcasting Ministry sources tell Indiantelevision.com that the CBFC is presently adopting a partial online certification process.

CBFC is implementing a Plan component under the 12th Plan Scheme with a view to upgrade and modernize its infrastructure as well as making certification process online. On completion of the scheme, the complete end-to-end process from application to issue of certificate will be online.

It may be recalled that earlier this year, CBFC chairman Pahlaj Nihalani had told Indiantelevision.com that one of the major tasks that he faced before him was to ensure speedy clearances of films submitted to the Board. “We will be looking at using more online methods to expedite this process with the least interference in the work of the film’s producer. The process will include introduction of an online ‘tatkal’ system to expedite the process of clearing films. The online system will be adapted to ensure that the board functions in a completely transparent manner and films can get certificates without much hassles,” he had then said.

Meanwhile, the Parliament was told in the recent session that the Government had no plans to promote establishment of Film Development Corporation in each State.

Ministry sources said that cinema was currently a subject under the State List. It may be recalled that the last National Democratic Alliance Government had made an attempt – an utter failure – to bring cinema into the Concurrent List.

At the same time, the Government said periodical interactions with representatives of film industry are held at different levels from time to time.