The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has announced the NHRC Short Film Competition 2025, aimed at promoting human rights awareness and respect through the power of visual storytelling. This prestigious competition offers an opportunity for filmmakers, both professional and amateur, to showcase their creative talent while contributing to the important cause of human rights advocacy.
The competition invites original short films that highlight human rights themes, encouraging entries that resonate with India’s diverse socio-cultural fabric. Through this initiative, the NHRC seeks to engage citizens in meaningful dialogue, foster empathy, and inspire collective action for the protection and promotion of human rights across the country.
Eligibility
To participate, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be an Indian citizen.
- Submit an original short film lasting between 3–10 minutes in any Indian language (with English subtitles) or in English.
- Ensure that the film aligns with human rights themes.
- Submit the film in MP4 Full HD format, with a maximum file size of 2 GB.
It is important to note that films already submitted in previous NHRC competitions are not eligible for resubmission under this scheme. Moreover, entries must be exclusive and not be available on any social media platforms before submission.
Benefits for Winners
The competition offers attractive cash prizes and recognition for outstanding work:
- 1st Prize: ₹2,00,000
- 2nd Prize: ₹1,50,000
- 3rd Prize: ₹1,00,000
- Up to 4 Special Mentions: ₹50,000 each
In addition to the cash rewards, winners will receive a trophy and a certificate of recognition. They will also be invited to an award ceremony in New Delhi, with travel expenses reimbursed as per NHRC norms.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- A completed application form.
- Government-issued photo ID.
- A synopsis of the film.
- The film file in the specified MP4 Full HD format.
- A declaration form affirming originality and compliance with competition rules.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 31 August 2025
- The results will be announced after evaluation by a panel of expert jurors.
Selection Criteria
Entries will be evaluated by a jury of experts on the basis of creativity, relevance to human rights themes, technical quality, and emotional or intellectual impact. The NHRC retains the right to upload selected films on its official platforms to enhance public engagement and education.
Terms and Conditions
- Each applicant can submit only one film.
- No entry fee is charged.
- Incomplete or non-compliant entries will be rejected.
- The NHRC reserves the right to use selected films for awareness and educational purposes.
The NHRC Short Film Competition 2025 is more than a contest—it is a national call to action for filmmakers to use the power of cinema to champion human rights, encourage dialogue, and bring pressing issues to the forefront of public consciousness, for more details CLICK HERE
