TRAI issues consultation paper on regulatory framework for ground-based broadcasters

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released a consultation paper on the “Regulatory Framework for Ground-Based Broadcasters,” inviting stakeholders to submit their written comments by November 15, 2024, and counter-comments by November 29, 2024.

Earlier, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) mandated that broadcasters use satellite methods for uplinking and downlinking television channels to Distribution Platform Operators (DPOs).

However, recent technological advancements now enable broadcasters to transmit channels using ground-based technologies. This method allows terrestrially transmitted channels to be carried on multiple DPO networks, which can then retransmit them to subscribers on commercial terms. Hence, a regulatory framework for ground-based broadcasting is needed.

TRAI had previously submitted recommendations regarding the regulatory framework for platform services to MIB on November 19, 2014, which included aspects related to ground-based broadcasters.

In this regard on May 22,2024, MIB has, inter-alia stated that the recommendations in relation to regulation of platform services have been examined and the guidelines for the same have been issued with the approval of the Competent Authority on November 30, 2022.

MIB has further mentioned that during the course of the examination of the recommendations of TRAI for the ground based broadcasters in the ministry, it was felt that the context in which the recommendations were made by TRAI may have changed since the year 2014 and there may be a need to look into the matter afresh.

MIB has requested TRAI for fresh review and recommendations on “Regulatory Framework for Ground Based Broadcasters” under Section 11(1)(a) of TRAI Act, 1997.
BCS Bureau