IN NEWS: PIB Announces Media Facilitation Initiatives for International Film Festival of India (IFFI)


Analysis (UPSC Relevance)

  • Context:
    The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has unveiled several new initiatives to strengthen media facilitation and outreach for the upcoming International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
  • Key Points:
    1. Media Engagement:
      • Principal DG of PIB, Shri Dhirendra Ojha, announced the initiatives during a media interaction.
      • In 2024, over 700 journalists were accredited — the highest number so far.
      • More than 50 press conferences were organized featuring filmmakers, jury members, and film stars.
    2. Language and Accessibility:
      • PIB will continue multilingual press releases in 18 Indian languages, including Konkani, to ensure broader accessibility.
      • High-definition (HD) photo captions and live YouTube coverage of press conferences will be provided for enhanced reach.
    3. Facilities for Journalists:
      • The special “IFFIwood” studio will once again provide space for one-on-one interviews with filmmakers and actors.
      • A film appreciation course for accredited journalists will commence on 18 November 2025.
    4. Digital Infrastructure:
      • A dedicated PIB microsite will serve as a centralized hub for all IFFI-related content — including press releases, photographs, and live event links.
    5. Operational Clarity:
      • The opening ceremony format for IFFI 2025 is under finalization.
      • Copyright guidelines for broadcasting and digital content will be clearly issued to ensure smooth media operations.
  • Significance:
    • Reflects Government of India’s proactive approach in promoting media transparency, inclusivity, and digital innovation.
    • Strengthens Goa’s position as a cultural hub for international film engagement.
    • Encourages journalistic capacity building through specialized training like the film appreciation course.

Static & Conceptual Part

  • About IFFI (International Film Festival of India):
    • Established in 1952, organized annually in Goa by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B).
    • Objective: To celebrate world cinema, promote Indian film artistry, and foster cultural exchange.
    • Recognized as Asia’s oldest and India’s most prestigious film festival.
    • Awards include Golden Peacock (Best Film), Silver Peacock (Best Director, Actor, Actress), and ICFT UNESCO Gandhi Medal.
  • About Press Information Bureau (PIB):
    • Nodal agency of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India.
    • Acts as the official communication arm of the Government — disseminating policies, achievements, and public information.
    • Provides press accreditation, organizes media events, and maintains national-level news databases.

Updated – 11 Nov 2025 ; 9:20 PM | PIBNews Source