PSBT encourages the production of innovative documentary films and is committed to expanding the constituency of filmmakers within the genre. From first time and starting out filmmakers to more experienced ones, those trained in filmmaking and those who have no formal training in the field, we aim to empower filmmakers and provide them opportunities to articulate their ideas and visions.

COMMISSIONING PROCESS

PSBT invites proposals from independent filmmakers on general and specific themes, depending upon its commissioning cycles, usually once or twice a year. A commissioning brief is announced and filmmakers are invited to submit proposals in keeping with the broad outline provided, by filling our online preliminary proposal form. 

All proposals received are circulated amongst all our Trustees and partner organisations. Based on their comments and our expertise, a short list is arrived at and filmmakers are requested to send in detailed proposals for further consideration. Short listed filmmakers may even be invited to pitch their proposals to the Trustees and to each other.

Once commissioned, PSBT actively engages in commissioning and supervision of the production of films in a transparent, credible and professional manner. Feedback and comments are provided at each stage by internal and external evaluators. The average time allotted for the completion of a film is around four-six months.

OUR PROJECTS

We have explored a range of themes through our Films. These have related to public cultures, contemporary predicaments due to the accelerating processes of change and issues related to diversity, freedom and Ideas that have Worked for the Ministry of Personnel and Administrative Reforms. We have a three year partnership with the Ministry of Environment to support 13 Films a year. Our partnerships have included those with  the United Nations Population Fund for Films on Gender and Reproductive Rights in India, UNDP for Women Leaders, the MacArthur Foundation for Films on Sexual-Reproductive Rights and Health and more recently with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Re-Visioning India.

Our current projects include Film Fellowships in partnership with Doordarshan and the Public Diplomacy Division, Ministry of External Affairs.

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