Currently, broadcasting service licenses, permissions, and registrations are granted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. However, with the Telecommunications Act, 2023 set to replace the Indian Telegraph Act, TRAI has formulated a new authorisation framework to ensure compliance with the updated legislation.

A Unified Framework for Broadcasting Services The Telecommunications Act, 2023, mandates authorisation for telecommunication services, including broadcasting, under Section 3(1)(a). Responding to an MIB request dated 25th July 2024, TRAI has devised a harmonised regulatory structure, incorporating stakeholder feedback, policy guidelines, and its own analysis.

TRAI’s recommendations propose a two-tier authorisation framework:

Authorisation Terms for New Applicants – Entities seeking broadcasting authorisation. Compliance Terms for Authorised Entities – Requirements to be met throughout the authorisation period. Proposed Authorisation Categories TRAI’s framework covers multiple broadcasting services, including:

Television Channel Broadcasting (Satellite-based/Ground-based) News Agency for Television Channels Teleport/Teleport Hub Live Event/News Uplinking by Foreign Channels/Agencies Direct-to-Home (DTH) Services Head End in the Sky (HITS) Services Terrestrial Radio Services Community Radio Stations (CRS) Low Power Small Range Radio Services Enhancing Growth & Regulatory Clarity The simplified authorisation framework aligns broadcasting regulations with the Telecommunications Act, 2023, ensuring consistency across service providers. It seeks to promote sectoral growth, encourage investments, and facilitate business operations while maintaining regulatory oversight.

With these recommendations, TRAI aims to modernise India's broadcasting landscape, fostering innovation, competition, and efficiency in the industry.