MIB to assign National Registration Numbers for LCOs

In a bid to enhance transparency and regulatory compliance in the cable television network sector, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has initiated measures to streamline the registration process for Local Cable Operators (LCOs). The MIB has mandated the submission of registration and certificate details by LCOs for the assignment of a National Registration Number.

Under the provisions of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, LCOs are required to obtain registration to operate within their designated areas. Section 3 of the Act explicitly states that cable television networks cannot be operated without proper registration. The registration process, overseen by the MIB, takes place at the Local Head Post Office of the respective operational areas.

To address issues related to the renewal of registration and to deter unregistered operations, the Ministry issued an advisory on January 19. The advisory emphasized the importance of valid registration and urged LCOs to comply with regulatory requirements.

LCOs have been directed to submit necessary details and documents within a stipulated time frame of 15 days through the Broadcast Seva Portal. Additionally, Multi-System Operators (MSOs) and Headend-in-the-Sky (HITS) operators have been instructed to ensure that LCOs with interconnection agreements furnish their details within the specified time limit.

Upon receipt of the requisite information, the Ministry will assign a National Registration Number to each LCO. Moreover, to enhance transparency, a centralized list of LCOs, known as the “National Register of LCOs,” will be compiled and made publicly accessible.

Effective April 1, 2024, MSOs and HITS Operators will only be permitted to provide signals or enter into fresh interconnection agreements with LCOs listed in the National Register of LCOs published by the Ministry. This measure aims to ensure that all operators within the cable television network sector adhere to regulatory standards and operate within the framework of the law.

The initiative by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is a move towards fostering a transparent and compliant regulatory environment within the cable television industry. By streamlining the registration process and enforcing compliance measures, the Ministry seeks to promote fair practices and protect the interests of stakeholders within the sector.