Centre proposes common broadcasting regulations for TV and radio

India's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has released draft rules aimed at consolidating various broadcasting services under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. The proposed Telecommunications (Television, Radio and Associated Services) Rules, 2026, seek to harmonize guidelines for television channels, DTH, HITS, FM radio, community radio, and IPTV, which were previously managed under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.

The move intends to simplify the regulatory regime and enhance the ease of doing business in the television and radio broadcasting sectors. Multi-system operators (MSOs) will continue to be governed by the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, while the MIB will administer provisions related to television, radio, and associated services.

Under the draft rules, broadcasters and service providers operating with earlier licenses can apply to migrate to the new authorization framework. However, existing licenses will not be eligible for renewal after their expiry. The rules maintain current requirements for ownership, foreign investment, and security clearances for news broadcasters, television distribution operators, and private radio services. Key personnel in specified services must remain resident in India.

For television broadcasters, channels must remain continuously operational. A channel non-operational for more than 60 continuous days will require government notification and justification. If a channel remains non-operational for over 90 continuous days, its authorization will be considered withdrawn, unless it's due to a government order.