Government issues norms for platforms services offered by multi-system operators

 

As part of the new guidelines, I&B has prescribed an online registration process for channels by MSOs at a fee of ₹1,000 per channel

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued guidelines for platform services provided by multi-system operators (MSOs) in India, giving them 12 months to comply with the norms.

The Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994, allow MSOs to broadcast their own programming service, either directly to their subscribers or through one or more local cable operators. These own programming services, referred to as platform services, which also include most local channels, are exclusive programming services locally generated by the MSOs.

As part of the new guidelines, I&B has prescribed an online registration process for PS channels by MSOs at a fee of ₹1,000 per channel. Online registration portal is being prepared for this purpose and will be notified shortly. Only entities registered as companies are permitted to provide local news and current affairs. MSOs that are not registered as a "company" and are willing to provide local news and current affairs must compulsorily apply to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs for conversion within three months.

The total number of PS channels permitted per operator is to be capped at 5% of the total channel carriage capacity.

To meet the local language and cultural needs of subscribers, this cap on PS channels will be calculated at the State or Union Territory level. In addition, two PS channels will be permitted to meet the requirement of local content at each district level.

All PS channels shall be given a caption as 'Platform Services' to differentiate them from the registered TV channels. The content of the PS is specific to the platform and is not to be shared directly or indirectly with any other distribution platform operator. However, sharing of live feed from religious places will be permitted.

All PS channels are to be clubbed together under the category 'Platform Services' in the Electronic Program Guide (EPG) with their MRP and the option of activation or deactivation as per the applicable orders and directions of TRAI.