Government notifies the Guidelines of Accessibility Standards in the Public Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema Theatres
Government notifies the Guidelines of Accessibility Standards in the Public Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema Theatres
Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has issued Guidelines of Accessibility Standards in the Public Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema Theatres for Persons with Hearing and Visual Impairment.
Hon’ble Prime Minister has envisioned that “Today special attention is being given to opportunity and accessibility for Divyangjan. It is our endeavour to ensure that every individual in the country is empowered, an inclusive society is created, spirit of equality and cooperation enhances harmony in the society and everybody progresses together as one.”
Hon’ble Minister for Information and Broadcasting carrying forward the vision Hon’ble PM, has recognised the essentiality of having accessibility standards for cinemas so that Divyangjan can partake in the cinematic journey, opening up the theatrical experience to a segment of the population that was previously excluded.
These accessibility standards, meticulously crafted following in-depth consultations with disability rights groups, cinema exhibitors, research scholars, and movie producers, represent a significant stride forward towards inclusivity. These new guidelines will pave the way for persons with hearing and visual impairments to fully experience the cinema fostering their inclusion in the main stream society.
The objective of these guidelines is to provide an enabling framework to support the development of a culture and practice of accessibility of feature films for persons with hearing and visual impairment by adopting the following measures:
Key features of Accessibility Standards include:
This initiative also aligns with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPwD Act), which mandates government action to promote universal access and inclusion in information and communication, including access to films.
These comprehensive guidelines establish a robust foundation for accessible feature film content and theatre infrastructure, fostering greater inclusion.