TRAI aims to align regulations for ground-based, satellite broadcasters

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has recommended that the regulatory framework for ground-based broadcasters (GBBs) be aligned with the 2022 uplinking and downlinking guidelines for satellite-based broadcasters (SBBs), wherever applicable, except for those rules specific to satellite use.

Currently, there is no dedicated regulatory framework for GBBs, which transmit content terrestrially to cable television networks without relying on satellite uplinking or downlinking.

In its recommendations on the “Regulatory Framework for Ground-Based Broadcasters,” TRAI highlighted that technological advancements now enable GBBs to deliver TV channels to distribution platform operators (DPOs) via terrestrial communication technologies, including wireline, wireless, internet, or cloud-based methods.

On May 22, 2024, the ministry of information and broadcasting (MIB) sought TRAI’s recommendations on GBBs under Section 11(1)(a) of the TRAI Act, 1997.

TRAI suggested that GBBs be allowed to use any terrestrial communication medium without restrictions for delivering channels to DPOs. Additionally, the service area for GBBs should be national in scope.

TRAI also proposed that GBBs may switch to or supplement their operations with SBBs upon obtaining approval from the central government. Similarly, SBBs may transition to or additionally adopt terrestrial communication technologies with government permission.Regarding stakeholders’ concerns about the absence of regulations for Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) channels, TRAI recommended that the MIB examine the compliance of FAST channels with existing guidelines and, if required, issue new policy guidelines in consultation with TRAI.