How Will TRAI's New Draft Transform the Broadcasting and Cable Distribution Sector?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has unveiled a draft aimed at significantly reshaping the broadcasting and cable distribution landscape. With a deadline for public comments approaching, industry stakeholders are eager to see how these changes will impact their operations and the overall market dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- TRAI has introduced a draft regulation aimed at transforming broadcasting and cable distribution.
- The deadline for public feedback is October 6, 2025.
- Mandatory audits will transition to a financial-year basis.
- Distributors must share audit reports with broadcasters by September 30 each year.
- Increased transparency and accountability measures are included in the draft.
New Delhi, Sep 23 (NationPress) In an effort to restructure the broadcasting and cable distribution sector, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released the draft Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) (Seventh Amendment) Regulations, 2025 on Tuesday. The telecom regulatory body is seeking public feedback by October 6, 2025, on this proposed framework, which is set to take effect on April 1, 2026.
This draft introduces substantial modifications to the audit, compliance, and infrastructure-sharing policies that dictate the interaction between television channel broadcasters and distributors.
Previously, on August 9, 2024, the Authority had circulated a consultation paper regarding the ‘Audit related provisions of Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulations, 2017 and the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Digital Addressable Systems Audit Manual’ to obtain feedback from stakeholders.
According to the Ministry of Communications, after the consultation period, a draft amendment to the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulations, 2017 was issued. The aim of this draft regulation is to gather insights from all relevant stakeholders regarding the proposed changes.
Among the suggested modifications is the transition from annual mandatory audits to a financial-year basis.
Distributors will be obligated to provide the audit report, validated by a TRAI-empanelled auditor or Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited (BECIL), to all broadcasters by September 30 each year.
To improve transparency, the draft stipulates that distributors must inform broadcasters at least 30 days prior to the audit schedule and the chosen auditor's name. Additionally, the draft enhances broadcaster oversight to guarantee accurate subscriber reporting.
Distributors that do not complete audits by the September 30 deadline will continue to incur penalties. However, the TRAI draft aims to clarify timelines to avoid disputes.
Point of View
I believe that TRAI's latest draft represents a bold step towards enhancing accountability and transparency in the broadcasting sector. By fostering stakeholder engagement and adhering to global best practices, this regulation aims to streamline operations while protecting consumer interests. We firmly believe that these changes will contribute positively to the industry’s growth and sustainability.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of TRAI's new draft regulations?
The draft aims to restructure the broadcasting and cable distribution industry by introducing new audit, compliance, and infrastructure-sharing norms to enhance transparency and accountability.
When will the new regulations take effect?
The new regulations are scheduled to come into effect on April 1, 2026.
How can stakeholders provide feedback on the draft?
Stakeholders can submit their comments on the proposed framework until October 6, 2025.
What changes are being proposed regarding audits?
The draft proposes shifting mandatory audits from a calendar-year cycle to a financial-year basis.
What are the consequences for distributors who fail to meet audit deadlines?
Distributors who do not complete audits by the September 30 deadline will continue to face penalties.
