A Brief History: Films Division
For decades, Films Division, set up in 1948, produced documentaries and newsreels for Indian audiences. In 2022, Films Division and other public film bodies were merged into the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), which now handles many of these functions.
Who Commissions Non-Feature Films Today
| Source | Typical work |
|---|---|
| Public bodies and ministries | Awareness, heritage, and information films |
| Public Service Broadcasting Trust (PSBT) | Independent documentaries |
| Broadcasters and platforms | Documentary series and specials |
| NGOs and foundations | Impact stories and advocacy films |
| CSR programmes | Films about community initiatives |
| Brands | Branded documentaries and shorts |
| International funds and pitch forums | Co-productions and grants |
Pitching a Non-Feature Film
Clear subject
Why this story, why now.
Access
Proof you can film it.
Treatment
Story and visual approach.
Budget
Realistic and itemised.
Protecting Editorial Independence
- Agree editorial control in writing
- Clarify approval rights
- Disclose funders in credits
- Protect contributors' consent
- Keep facts verified
Our earlier non-feature film explainer covers awards. For classification examples, see ten projects classified, and for documentary approaches, the six documentary modes.
Producing Commissioned Non-Features
A commissioned-documentary studio in India can deliver to funders' requirements. A CSR storytelling agency in India documents community programmes. A field documentary crew films sensitively. In Karnataka, a Bengaluru CSR film crew can help, and national foundations may commission one of the most trusted impact-film makers in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who funds non-feature films in India?
Public bodies, PSBT, broadcasters, platforms, NGOs, CSR programmes, brands, and international funds.
What happened to Films Division?
It was merged into NFDC in 2022 along with other public film bodies.
What is PSBT?
The Public Service Broadcasting Trust, which has commissioned many independent documentaries.
How do I pitch a non-feature film?
Show a clear subject, proof of access, a treatment, and an itemised budget.
Find the Right Funder
Non-feature films are funded by many sources, each with its own expectations. Pitch clearly and protect editorial independence. For a commissioned documentary or CSR film, discuss a commissioned film with us.
Ready to plan your next video?
Tell us about your project, timeline, and goals, and the Editatease team will suggest the right approach.
Contact Editatease