MUMBAI, MAY 23: Disgusted with the indifference by the government and lack of definite policy on children's films, Jaya Bachchan is not likely to continue as the chairperson of the National Centre for Young People (NCYP).The noted actress, whose three-year term expired on April 30, felt that the future of the NCYP and its utility continues to be uncertain. Set up to promote films for children and youth, the centre receives government grants to conduct its activities.

Though she was happy about higher allocation of funds by the Planning Commission for the NCYP, she pointed out that infrastructural facilities are woefully inadequate.

``How long can the government run an organisation on the strength of a personality? The institution must run on its own merit. It has to be given all-round support to flourish. "There must be a guaranteed outlet for films made by the NCYP. The central and state governments' field publicity units should be pressed into showing good films on children.''

She suggested that Doordarshan should have a permanent slot for children's programmes at a suitable time. ``DD has changed the timings of the slot thrice because it could not compete with other commercial slots. Instead, the government should open other outlets like reserving a theatre every Sunday in all cities. "All we have done in the last three years is hold an international film festival for children at Hyderabad,'' she said.

Bachchan's request to the state government three years ago to sponsor a film festival in Pune did not receive any response. ``While incentives were given to the National Film Development Corporation to market films for Doordarshan, NCYP is given a short shrift,'' she lamented.

The government has not yet named Bachchan's successor at the NCYP.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.