It is a sad fact that we live in a world where intolerance and hatred for one's religious beliefs, ethnicity, race caste creed and colour is gaining prominence as a result of which conflict communal strife and sectarianism divide are gaining ground.
It is therefore incumbent on governments, educationists, religious scholars and sensitive agencies to teach, guide and instil in people the spirit of tolerance, harmony and unity.
In this context, the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) Pakistan has announced a short film contest on the theme of 'Tolerant Society', aimed at promoting national harmony and peaceful co-existence in the country.
The main theme of the short film contest 2021 is tolerance and peaceful co-existence. However, it also includes other sub-themes such as "need of peaceful society", "how to take peaceful and thoughtful actions in uncertain situations", "Pakistan belongs to all Pakistanis" and others, according to details shared by the agency on its website.
The last date for online submission of short films is April 30, whereas its duration should be one minute to 180 seconds. It could be in various forms including fiction, animation and inspiration.
The short film will be received in English, Urdu and regional languages. Films in regional languages will only be accepted if subtitles are provided and the script is translated into English. Only original and unscreened films will be accepted. The films may be submitted in HD quality, Quick Time H.264 or MPEG4 formats.
Other acceptable formats include MWV, MOV, M4V or AVI. Recommended aspect ratio is 16:9. The film must not contain any copyrighted or other work(s) belonging to third parties unless entrants have a licence to use such works in the film.
The cash prize for the winner is Rs 100,000 besides a shield and certificate, whereas, for the runner up, it is Rs 50,000 along with a shield and certificate.
Finalists up to three will be given a shield and certificate only. The film can be submitted as DVD or HDV or through a digital medium via any file sharing service nactavideocontest@gmail.com.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 4th, 2021.
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