Broadcasters talk to Prasar Bharati about creating level playing field
The meeting, held with industry players, emphasised the necessity of a consistent licensing framework and equitable adherence to regulations for all participants
Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, Electronics & Information Technology held a meeting recently with DTH and cable TV operators including Tata Play and Airtel. The meeting mainly focused on creating a level playing field.
Although the industry participants expressed worry about the excessive regulation of the DTH sector, Harit Nagpal, MD & CEO, Tata Play, emphasized the necessity of a consistent licensing framework and equitable adherence to regulations for all participants, encompassing OTT and DD Free Dish, according to media reports.
Industry leaders contend that it is unjust for DPO subscribers to pay for channels that DD Free Dish customers receive at no cost, the report said. It was proposed that Prasar Bharati/DD Free Dish limit its educational outreach to DD channels.
As per the report, the industry also suggested doing away with DTH license fees to maintain equity and asked for government assistance to lessen the tax burden on the DTH business.
Stakeholders also brought attention to the fact that DTH has lost 3.3 million customers as a result of these issues over the last three years.
