The documentaries being commissioned in this series will not just be aired on Doordarshan but later used to promote further discussion and debate on some of the key issues ailing the `largest democracy in the world'. While many of us may not doubt the relevance of democracy to India's burgeoning economy and dynamic labour force, there is no question in the minds of most that Indian democracy is far from completely healthy. In fact many have gone, as far as to say it is democracy that is the root cause of our `developing country' status.

The title of the series `Democracy on the Ground' is intentionally very general so as to give the filmmaker as wide a canvas as s/he may need to make the most creative film. It does however presuppose certain givens such as, that of all the various forms of governance available to us today democracy is the most popular and relevant to the times. It attempts more or less to include the largest number in the decision-making process and similarly works by a mandate of the people. Rule of law, transparency and accountability as well as human rights for all and equality of minorities and gender are all preconditions for a truly effective and vibrant democracy.

We are looking for films which while discussing the general focus on the particular, take specific examples to show how systems work or indeed do not work. For example what is the rite of passage for a Bill to be passed through parliament? The film maker may choose to focus on the present `free education' bill, looking at the arguments being put for and against, by many including various pressure groups, the process it must necessarily follow in the corridors of bureaucracy as well as in parliament. Other possible subjects could be public campaigns - how NGO's put together a public campaign, what and how a PIL works, looking at the importance and relevance of panchayats for civil society engagement at village level. On a broader scale and yet looking at the particular: violence/corruption in elections – e. g. what is the secret of why Bihar, in the 50's hailed as one of the most dynamic States of the country is so unanimously today considered a failed State. Why does UP look to be following close behind? What is the role and usefulness of the Election Commission? Do the multiple layers of identity help or hinder the process of democracy?

These are just a few suggestions for what we hope will be powerful, thought-provoking films pushing ordinary citizens to realize that the political system needs civil society interest and engagement.