TRAI extends the time limit for implementation of New Regulatory Framework 2020

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) today extended the time limit for implementation of the New Regulatory Framework 2020 keeping in mind the current pandemic situation across the country. The regulator also received requests from relevant stakeholders for an extension of time for implementation.

TRAI had earlier in November 2021 issued a letter to broadcasters and DPOs and directed them to submit a compliance report on the implementation of the New Regulatory Framework 2020. The stakeholders however gave representations to the regulator seeking an extension of the time limit for implementation as most of their staff were affected with COVID-19 or unable to attend the office due to guidelines issued by the state governments. The staff and linked cable operators were also finding it difficult to reach COVID affected subscribers for collection of choices.

All broadcasters have been directed by the regulator to report any change in the name, language, nature, MRP per month of channels, composition of bouquets, and MRP of a bouquet of channels as per relevant provisions of the New Regulatory Framework 2020 by 28th February 2022 and simultaneously publish the same information on their websites. The broadcasters who have already submitted their RIOs in compliance with the New Regulatory Framework 2020 may revise their RIOs by 28th February 2022.

All distribution platform operators (DPOs) have been directed by the regulator to report DRP of pay channels, composition of bouquet of pay channels and free-to-air channels, and DRP of bouquet of pay channels, as per the New Regulatory Framework 2020 by 31st March 2022 and simulatenaously publish the same information on their websites. The DPOs who have already submitted their RIOs in compliance with the New Regulatory Framework 2020 may revise their RIOs by 31st March 2022.

TRAI has further advised distributors of television channels to ensure that with effect from 1st June 2022 services to the subscribers are provided in line with the channels or bouquets opted by individual subscribers.