Imphal, February 12: Noted Manipuri film maker Aribam Syam Sharma has reiterated his appeal to the Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting for allowing feature films in digital/video format to compete in the National Film Festival and the Indian Panorama (International Film Festival of India).

In yet another representation submitted to the Union Minister Priyaranjan Dashmunshi, Aribam Syam Sharma contended that allowing feature films in digital/video format to compete at the National levels is in the interest of the present and the next generation of filmmakers.

The existing rules and regulations of the National Film Festival and the Indian Panorama Section of IFFI ban entry of feature films in digital/video format.

Putting up his case, the internationally acclaimed films maker of the like Ishanou and Imagi Ningthem, pointed out that digital and video format is much cheaper and affordable to independent filmmakers.

Therefore, it is an ideal format for experimentation for creative filmmakers who have limited financial resources.

In financially weak States of the North East, especially Manipur, filmmakers have altogether abandoned celluloid format for digital/video format.

In last year, there were more than 50 censored feature films in digital format and there are now not even a single cinema hall to exhibit celluloid films.

If opportunities are given for these films to participate and compete in the National levels, it would motivate the film makers to produce better films.

Moreover, feature films inthis format are allowed in major film festivals around the work.

So it is right time to do so in India as well.

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