Chhattisgarh police have planned a short film festival in local dialects to spread awareness regarding road safety measures.

Under the special initiative, entries have been invited for the National Road Safety Short Film Festival 2023 to encourage the creative individuals of the state to produce short films focused on road safety.

“The state government will recognise and award outstanding short films in various categories. Online registration for participation commenced on July 5 and will continue till July 26. The selected films, after screening at the two-day film festival, will become the property of Chhattisgarh police and will be used through social media and other mediums to educate people about traffic rules and road safety norms,” said Chhattisgarh assistant inspector-general (traffic) Sanjay Sharma.

The primary objective of the initiative is to raise awareness about road safety concerns and foster cooperation among road users throughout the nation, with a particular emphasis on reducing road accidents.

“We will be inviting schools, colleges and other institutions to witness the selected films on the first day, while the second day will have the chief minister and other dignitaries watching the films. After that, the films will be screened on various social media handles of the police. We might also use it to show it in the awareness vans of the police in different districts,” said Sharma.

According to the data accessed from the Chhattisgarh police website, the state registered 4,115 accidents with 1,885 fatalities in 2022. “For detailed rules and regulations regarding short film submissions, interested participants can contact Chhattisgarh police through mobile numbers 9040834734 and 9479191791. Additionally, comprehensive information can be obtained by visiting the Chhattisgarh police website,” said Sharma.

The films should be in languages and dialects including Chhattisgarhi, Gondi, Halbi, Dhurwa, Bhatri, Dorli, Sambalpuri, Kudukh, Sadri, Baigani, Kamari, Odia, Surgujia, Dantewada, Gondi, Bhujiya, among others, with Hindi subtitle.

“Filmmakers should note that the maximum duration for submitted films is set at 2 minutes. Furthermore, the original film should be in full HD format. Entries with incorrect, inadequate, or unclear/incomplete details will not be considered. Once a film has been submitted for selection, no further modifications will be entertained,” said a release issued by Chhattisgarh police.

The festival offers attractive prize money across different categories, including Rs 80,000 for best film and Rs 25,000 each for best story.