New Delhi: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has appointed Shashi Shekhar Vempati as the new Chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), marking a significant leadership transition in India’s film regulatory ecosystem.
Vempati takes over from Prasoon Joshi, who now moves to a new role as Chairman of Prasar Bharati. The reshuffle reflects a broader realignment within India’s public broadcasting and content regulation institutions.
A former CEO of Prasar Bharati between 2017 and 2022, Vempati is widely recognised for driving structural and technological transformation across India’s public broadcasting network. His tenure saw a strong push towards digitisation, platform modernisation, and the integration of emerging technologies across Doordarshan and All India Radio. His work focused on strengthening the relevance of public service media in an increasingly digital-first landscape.
Beyond his role in broadcasting, Vempati has also been active in policy and emerging technology ecosystems. Following his stint at Prasar Bharati, he co-founded AI4India.org under the DeepTech for Bharat Foundation, an initiative aimed at advancing artificial intelligence applications for public good. His involvement in governance and advisory roles includes chairing the Department of Science and Technology’s panel on science communication, as well as contributing to the University Grants Commission’s expert committee on educational media.
In parallel with his new appointment, Vempati has stepped down from the board of the Broadcast Audience Research Council, where he served as a professional director.
An alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Vempati was conferred the Padma Shri in 2026, recognising his contributions to public service, institutional reform, and the evolution of India’s broadcasting landscape.
The CBFC, a statutory body operating under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, plays a pivotal role in regulating film content in India. Under the provisions of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, films must obtain certification from the board before being publicly exhibited, placing the institution at the intersection of creative expression and regulatory oversight.
Vempati’s appointment comes at a time when the media and entertainment industry is navigating rapid shifts driven by digital distribution, content diversity, and evolving audience sensibilities—factors that are expected to shape the CBFC’s approach in the years ahead.
