Rapid Fire
National Film Awards
- 14 Feb 2024
- 2 min read
The National Film Awards, a prestigious recognition in Indian cinema, have undergone significant changes as per the recommendations of a committee set up by the Information and Broadcasting Ministry. These changes, aimed at rationalizing categories and increasing cash rewards, mark a departure from traditional nomenclature and category distinctions. The new names are more descriptive of the award criteria.
- Renaming Awards:
- The 'Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director' is now 'Best Debut Film of a Director'.
- The 'Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration' is renamed 'Best Feature Film Promoting National, social and Environmental Values'.
- Monetary Rewards:
- The Dadasaheb Phalke Award's prize money has been raised from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh.
- Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) awardees will now receive Rs 3 lakh, and Rajat Kamal (Silver Lotus) winners Rs 2 lakh, across categories.
- Swarn Kamal is given in these categories: best film, debut film, film providing wholesome entertainment, direction and children’s film.
- Rajat Kamal is given to winners of best feature film promoting national, social and environmental values, all the acting categories, best screenplay, music and other such categories.
- Category Modifications:
- Awards for 'best animation film' and 'best special effects' have been combined into a new category called "best AVGC film".
- 'Best Audiography' is now 'best sound design', with a prize money increase to Rs 2 lakh.
- Continuation of Jury Discretion:
- Special mentions in feature and non-feature film categories remain at the jury's discretion.
- Special jury award discontinued, replaced by discretionary special mentions.
Read more: Dadasaheb Phalke Award
