India has revised CBFC film-certification guidelines, adding UA 7+, UA 13+ and UA 16+ markers and mandatory warnings for scenes depicting illicit drugs.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has notified revised guidelines governing how the Central Board of Film Certification examines and classifies films in India.
The framework largely retains the principles contained in the 1991 guidelines while adding rules concerning age-specific parental guidance and warnings for scenes involving narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances.
Anti-Drug Warning Made Mandatory
Films containing scenes that depict the use, consumption or trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances must now display a statutory warning.
The prescribed message reads: “Illicit Narcotics Destroy Health and Guarantees Imprisonment, Say No to Drugs.”
The provision extends the use of on-screen health warnings beyond the familiar disclaimers shown during depictions of tobacco consumption. It is intended to discourage drug use and make viewers aware of its health and legal consequences.
UA Certificates Get Age Markers
The updated guidelines also formally reflect the age-specific UA categories introduced under the Cinematograph Rules, 2024:
- UA 7+: Parental guidance advised for children below seven
- UA 13+: Parental guidance advised for children below 13
- UA 16+: Parental guidance advised for children below 16
These classifications do not prohibit younger children from watching a film. They provide parents and guardians with more precise information about whether its content may be appropriate for them.
Existing Certification Principles Retained
The guidelines continue to direct the CBFC to consider whether a film glorifies violence, criminality, substance abuse or antisocial behaviour. They also address content involving sexual violence, cruelty, discrimination, communal tensions, national security and India’s relations with foreign countries.
The CBFC is expected to balance creative expression with public order, decency and the protection of vulnerable audiences. Its chairperson, Shashi Shekhar Vempati, has asked filmmakers and industry associations to familiarise themselves with the revised framework.
The changes apply to films submitted for certification following the notification. Further operational details may emerge as the board begins applying them to new releases. The revised provisions were detailed by The Indian Express.
About the Author
