Safeguarding Cinema Heritage: Government Expands National Film Heritage Mission

The Government of India is strengthening efforts to preserve the country’s cinematic legacy through the National Film Heritage Mission (NFHM). The initiative focuses on safeguarding old and endangered films by digitising and restoring them using modern technology. The programme reflects India’s commitment to conserving audiovisual heritage while ensuring wider public access to historically significant films across languages and regions.

Progress Under the National Film Heritage Mission

Under the National Film Heritage Mission, a substantial number of films have already been preserved. As of now, 1,469 film titles have been digitised, amounting to nearly 4.3 lakh minutes of content. These include feature films, short films, and documentaries, covering a wide spectrum of India’s cinematic output. The initiative aims to prevent the permanent loss of ageing film material and preserve it for future generations.

Role of the National Film Archives of India

The digitised and restored films are maintained by the National Film Archives of India (NFAI). The archive ensures proper storage, cataloguing, and access to these works. Many of the restored titles are available through the official NFAI website, enabling researchers, students, and cinema enthusiasts to explore India’s film history. This digital access also supports academic study and cultural awareness of Indian cinema’s evolution.

Support for Filmmakers Across Indian Languages

The Government of India continues to extend support to filmmakers working in all Indian languages, including Bengali. Through the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, financial and institutional assistance is provided to encourage diverse storytelling. This support ensures that regional cinema receives recognition alongside mainstream productions, strengthening cultural representation and linguistic diversity within the film industry.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The National Film Heritage Mission focuses on film preservation and digitisation.
• 1,469 film titles covering 4.3 lakh minutes have been digitised so far.
• The National Film Archives of India maintains restored films.
• The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting supports films in all Indian languages.

DCDFC Scheme and Parliamentary Disclosure

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting implements the Development, Communication and Dissemination of Filmic Content (DCDFC) scheme to promote Indian films nationally and internationally. The scheme provides financial and other forms of assistance to help filmmakers produce and market content effectively. Information about these initiatives was shared in the Lok Sabha by Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, in response to questions raised by Members of Parliament Narayan Tatu Rane and Saumitra Khan. The disclosure highlights the government’s integrated approach to film preservation, production, and global outreach.