Broadcasters urge TRAI to reinstate separate tariffs for commercial and retail TV users

Television broadcasters, through the Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF), have approached the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) with a request to reintroduce different tariff structures for individual households and commercial entities. Sources familiar with the matter said this push comes amid growing concerns about the current pricing system.

Broadcasters argue that the present framework enables commercial establishments like hotels, restaurants, and bars to access TV content at rates meant for regular households, which they believe is unfair. They are also pressing for the freedom to set separate rates and strike direct deals with businesses, rather than being bound by uniform pricing rules.

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Traditionally, TRAI had allowed differential pricing for commercial and retail subscribers. However, in 2015, the distinction was scrapped, leading to a tripartite arrangement involving broadcasters, distribution platforms, and commercial consumers. Broadcasters claim this change has eroded their flexibility and is out of sync with practices in other industries, where business users typically pay different rates from individual consumers.

In its submission to TRAI, the IBDF called the current regulatory framework outdated, especially in light of declining traditional TV viewership. Industry estimates suggest a drop in reach from 120 million households in 2022 to around 90 million today, as more viewers shift to digital and streaming platforms.

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The broadcasters are expected to continue lobbying for regulatory revisions in upcoming discussions with TRAI. These efforts coincide with TRAI’s preparations for a pre-consultation paper aimed at reviewing television pricing norms, especially in the context of evolving media consumption patterns.

According to TRAI officials, the consultation process is still at a preliminary stage. So far, input has been received from a range of stakeholders, including DTH operators, cable providers, and platforms like Tata Play and Dish TV. Industry bodies such as the NBDA (News Broadcasters and Digital Association) and AIDCF (All India Digital Cable Federation) are also participating.

Broadcasters say the issue has gained urgency as subscription-based revenues have stagnated or declined in recent years.

According to sources, the IBDF has called the current regulatory system too restrictive, particularly regarding pricing flexibility and bundling of channels.