The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has proposed major changes in the broadcasting and cable sector. The draft Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) (Seventh Amendment) Regulations, 2025, was released on Tuesday. Public comments are invited until October 6, 2025, with the rules set to take effect from April 1, 2026.
The draft focuses on audit, compliance, and infrastructure-sharing norms between broadcasters and distributors. It follows a consultation paper issued in August 2024 seeking stakeholders’ feedback on audit provisions under the 2017 regulations. The amendment aims to improve transparency and streamline operational practices in the sector.
Among the changes, mandatory audits will now follow a financial-year cycle instead of the calendar year. Distributors must submit audit reports certified by TRAI-empanelled auditors or BECIL to all broadcasters by September 30 annually. Broadcasters are to be notified at least 30 days in advance about audit schedules and auditor details.
The draft also enhances broadcaster oversight to ensure accurate subscriber reporting. Distributors missing the September 30 deadline will face penalties. TRAI has clarified timelines in the draft to prevent disputes and improve accountability across the broadcasting and cable distribution ecosystem.
