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Key Points

TRAI has released a significant new draft to reshape the broadcasting sector. The proposed changes aim to overhaul audit and compliance norms for cable distributors. Key updates include shifting to a financial year audit cycle and boosting transparency. Stakeholders have until October 2025 to provide feedback before the rules take effect in 2026.

Key Points: TRAI Draft Reshapes Broadcasting Cable Industry with New Rules

  • Shifts mandatory industry audits from calendar year to financial year cycle
  • Requires distributors to share certified audit reports by September 30 annually
  • Mandates 30-day advance notice of audit schedule and appointed auditor to broadcasters
  • Strengthens broadcaster oversight to ensure accurate subscriber reporting
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TRAI issues new draft to reshape broadcasting and cable distribution industry

TRAI proposes 2025 draft shifting audits to financial year, enhancing transparency and broadcaster oversight. Public comments invited until October 6, 2025.

"“Based on the consultation process, draft amendment to the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulations, 2017 has been issued.” - Ministry of Communications"

New Delhi, Sep 23

In a bid to rejig the broadcasting and cable distribution industry, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on Tuesday issued the draft Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) (Seventh Amendment) Regulations, 2025.

The telecom industry body has invited public comments by October 6, 2025 on the proposed framework„ which is scheduled to come into effect from April 1, 2026.

It introduces far-reaching changes to the audit, compliance, and infrastructure-sharing norms that govern the relationship between broadcasters and distributors of television channels.

The Authority had issued a consultation paper on ‘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’ on August 9, 2024 for seeking stakeholders’ comments.

“Based on the consultation process, draft amendment to the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulations, 2017 has been issued. The objective of this draft regulation is to seek comments of all the stakeholders on the proposed amendments,” according to the Ministry of Communications.

Among the proposed changes is the shift of mandatory audits from a calendar-year cycle to a financial-year basis.

Distributors will be required to share the audit report, certified by a TRAI-empanelled auditor or Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited (BECIL), with all broadcasters by September 30 of each year.

As per the official document, to enhance transparency, distributors must notify broadcasters at least 30 days in advance of the audit schedule and name of the appointed auditor. The draft also strengthens broadcaster oversight to ensure accurate subscriber reporting.

Distributors failing to complete audits by the September 30 deadline will continue to face penalties. Although, the TRAI draft has proposed clarifying timelines to prevent disputes.

—IANS

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone working in the media industry, I welcome these changes. The shift to financial year cycle makes more sense for accounting purposes. But I hope TRAI ensures small cable operators aren't burdened with compliance costs.
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Arjun K
Will this actually reduce our cable bills? That's what matters to common people like me. All these regulations sound good on paper but we need to see practical benefits for consumers.
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Sarah B
Good to see TRAI taking proactive steps. The broadcasting industry needs modernization and better governance. The September 30 deadline seems reasonable - gives enough time for proper audits without rushing.
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Vikram M
While the intent is good, I'm concerned about implementation. Our local cable operator already struggles with existing regulations. Hope TRAI provides adequate training and support for smooth transition.
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Michael C
The broadcaster oversight strengthening is crucial. Many distributors underreport subscriber numbers to pay less to broadcasters. This should create a more level playing field. Good move by TRAI!
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Ananya R
I appreciate that TRAI is seeking public comments until October 6. Hope stakeholders from smaller towns and rural areas also get to voice their concerns. The industry shouldn't be Delhi-centric in its approach.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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