TRAI Looks Out For Customers: Asks Cable TV, DTH Operators To Avoid Blackout Due To Tariff Regime Change

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) chief RS Sharma has asked broadcasters, cable and DTH operators to avoid a blackout once the new tariff regime kicks in at the end of the month, Economic Times has reported. The regulator had called for a meeting with representatives of all three stakeholders.

The readiness of stakeholders to the new regimes, consumer migration and paid channels carried on DD free dish were discussed during a two and a half hour meeting. The TRAI chairman rejected a proposal for an extension for the deadline (29 December 2019) according to a senior executive who spoke to Economic Times. The cable bills could increase due to the implementation of the new tariff regime.

The current subscription revenue of broadcasters is Rs 9,900 crores. 165 million consumers access television content through DTH and cable operators. About 30 million consumers are using free DD Free Dish services.

TRAI favours a regime where informed choice is made by the end consumer. Under the new regime, customers will get the choice to choose channels and control their monthly TV bill.