NEW DELHI: Information and Broadcasting Ministry secretary Raghu Menon wants the Photo Division of the Ministry to draw up a plan proposal for the XIIth Plan to cross creativity and technological frontiers through digitisation.
Menon noted that about 800,000 images had been digitalised by the Photo Division from its library.

He said that it was necessary to organise Photo Contest and Exhibitions across the country to popularise and promote excellence in photography. This would enable better participation from people residing in far flung areas as well as mainstream the reach of photography to the remote corners of the country.
 
Speaking at the 23rd National Photo Contest Awards Function here, Menon said the theme of the photo contest was extremely apt as it portrayed the youthful energy and vibrant character of our young population. 726 photographs on the theme received for the competition spoke volumes of the character and depth associated with the subject. India is a nation of young people. The future of the country, its hopes, aspirations and achievements, rests with the youth and this demographic asset has to be harnessed for the good of the nation.

Menon said that the Division had been able to universalise a language and medium of communication easily understood by the people. In order to keep pace with new formats, it was necessary to innovate. The process of digitalisation has enabled India to preserve the rich visual heritage of the country.

Speaking earlier, Joint Secretary Khurshid Ahmed Ganai said the need of the hour was to promote highest standards of excellence in the photography domain. The Photo Division would strive to achieve this objective in the XIIth Plan.