[3] For feature and non-feature films, all the films certified by Central Board of Film Certification, India between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2010 were made eligible whereas for the best writing on cinema, all the books and articles as well reviews on Indian cinema published between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2010 were made eligible for the awards.

The award is given to a prominent personality from the Indian film industry for their contribution.

A committee headed by A. K. Bir was appointed to evaluate the non-feature films awards.

A committee headed by Ashok Vajpeyi was appointed to evaluate the writing on Indian cinema.

Awards were conferred by President of India, Pratibha Patil and ceremony was hosted by actors Mahi Gill and Rajat Kapoor.

Both sang their respective award-winning songs, "Hey Bhaskara Kshitijavari Ya" from a Marathi film, Mee Sindhutai Sapkal and "Badi Dheere Jali" from a Hindi film, Ishqiya.