Prasar Bharati, India’s public service broadcaster, has opened the invitation for feature film proposals as part of its preparations to launch its own OTT (Over-The-Top) platform.

The organization aims to source around 50 feature films by the end of the current financial year for streaming on its digital and linear platforms, according to a notice issued on September 24. Interested parties have until October 20 to submit their applications.

According to The Storyboard18, the broadcaster is seeking feature films under a license fee/royalty model from rights owners, companies, partnership firms, proprietary firms, or producers. The telecast and streaming schedules will be decided after the completion of the sourcing process, and the films will be selected based on their category, period, and territorial rights acquired for different platforms.

Prasar Bharati has outlined a ‘first-come, first-serve’ application process, with proposals evaluated according to its recently introduced Content Sourcing Policy-2024, which was notified on August 9. The selection will be based on the merits of each proposal and their alignment with Prasar Bharati’s content needs.
Key conditions for the feature films include:
• The films must be ready-made or already produced.
• They should not be older than 5 years.
• Films that have not been premiered on other digital platforms or television networks will be prioritized (for exclusive digital or TV rights).
• Films with a U or U/A CBFC Certificate are required for satellite rights. For digital rights, films without a CBFC certificate can apply but will require a detailed preview before approval.
• The films must adhere to Prasar Bharati’s Programme Code, along with any other regulatory guidelines.

The rights owner must not be blacklisted or suspended by any government authority, and Prasar Bharati reserves the right to cancel agreements in case of any violations.

The final acquisition of films will be based on cost negotiations between the rights owners and Prasar Bharati’s Costing Committee. If the parties agree on the price offered during these negotiations, the films may be acquired; otherwise, the proposals may be rejected.

The move marks a significant step in Prasar Bharati’s digital expansion strategy, as the broadcaster looks to compete in the booming OTT market.