Page 36 - Annual Report 2019-20

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Science & Technology Communication through Films
Films have been one of the important tools of science communication which is being explored and promoted by VP for
past two decades. Various events, outreach activities, workshops and film festivals are being organised throughout the country. This is to acknowledge and foster the excellence in using the medium of films for science communication/ popularisation. In this process, efforts are being made to highlight the importance of film making for science communication and enhancing the capacities of both professionals and amateurs. The latest tools of I.T. has made film-based communication more attractive, dynamic and engaging with audiences due to its unique synthesis of multimedia systems including audio, video, animation, and graphics, etc.
Some initiatives under report period are:
International and National Science Film Festivals of India
Science film festivals offer an opportunity for filmmakers, communicators, film enthusiasts, students and other participants to get involved with the process of science filmmaking and improve their understanding of various feats in science and technology. The initiative recognises the effort and contribution of film producers in the specialised areas of science and technology and motivates them to take the profession of science filmmaking with innovative quality and content especially relevant to our country.
VP’s flagship events − The International Science Film Festival of India (ISFFI) and National Science Film Festival of India (NSFFI) − seek to promote science popularisation among citizens and aim at attracting talented young filmmakers and science enthusiasts towards filmmaking. During these events, documentaries and short films on popular science, technology, health, and environmental issues are screened, beside a competition. Workshops and panel discussions on science through film are also part of these festivals. The festival touches all the age groups and stakeholders interested in communicating S&T through films.
These two events have established a unique platform for all creative and talented aspirants from India and abroad, to show their artistic work besides communicating S&T.
5th International Science Film Festival of India (ISFFI) 2019
l The 5th International Science Film Festival of India (ISFFI) was organised during 6-8 November 2019 as a part of India International Science Festival 2019 at Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, Kolkata. The specific objective of the festival was to promote science with audiovisual media among citizens and to offer an opportunity to students and budding filmmakers to get involved with the process of science filmmaking.
l ISFFI was inaugurated by Ms Brigitte Uttar Kornetzky, Environmentalist and Filmmaker,
VIGYAN PRASAR ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020