Dhaka: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday asked those involved in the country’s film industry not to exert any influence on the process to select nominees for the National Film Award.

‘Please don’t exert your influence, make it sure the real artistes are recognised,’ she said.

The Prime Minister was distributing the National Film Award-2015 among its winners in 25 categories at a colourful function of the 40th National Film Award held at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) in the capital, reports the UNB.

‘Awami League is now in power, and this power shouldn’t be misused...I request you to maintain this,’ said Hasina requesting all not to create pressure on the selection committee.

Terming the present world a competitive one, she said those involved in the film industry must adapt to the modern technology use to remain bold and vibrant.

The Prime Minister called upon all concerned to improve the quality of movies, atmosphere, acting and technical skill of artistes, upholding own culture and tradition.

She also urged the well-off section of society, including the businessmen, to invest in this sector. ‘Our Finance Minister has given tax holiday for constructing Cineplex...we’ve reduced duty on import of modern equipments for movie houses, and we’ll provide financial assistance, if needed, as those should be modernised to attract viewers.’

She said the government has taken projects to construct Information Complex in 64 districts and four upazilas where there will be multi-purpose cinema hall in every complex which will help producers market their movies.

Hasina hoped that all concerned, including filmmakers, producers, scriptwriters, actors and actresses and performers will play an important role in development of the film industry through their talents, labour and creativities.

Describing movie as a strong medium, the Prime Minister said people’s struggles and social realities have to be reflected on the movies. ‘And it’s possible to be very close to the common people with this creative art.’

She said the government has formulated the draft law of Cinema Certification Act to change the censor system and laid importance to the release of cinemas online to fulfil the desire of viewers and researchers.

Hasina asked the Information Ministry to complete the cinema-related projects quickly.

She also said her government, after assuming office in 2009, implemented massive programmes for the development of the industry and declared it as an ‘industry’.

The Prime Minister congratulated the winners of the National Film Award 2015, and hoped this recognition will encourage the creative, talented and patriotic filmmakers in making life-oriented movies.

Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing committee on Information Ministry AKM Rahmat Ullah spoke as a special guest while Information Secretary Martuza Ahmad delivered the welcome address at the function, held with Information Minister Hasanul Haq Inu in the chair.

On behalf of the National Film Award 2015recipients, prominent actress Shabana spoke at the function.