IBDF AGM: Broadcasters seek immediate restoration of BARC ratings

Members of the Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation (IBDF) called for immediate restoration of BARC television ratings at their 27th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Monday.

Broadcasters expressed concern that the prolonged suspension of ratings was adversely affecting revenue visibility and expectations, especially during the festive season.

They stressed that the suspension of television ratings had created uncertainty for advertisers, disrupted informed media planning, and prevented broadcasters from fully realising the commercial potential of one of the most important periods of the year. Early restoration of ratings was essential to rebuild advertiser confidence and prevent further commercial disruption across the broadcasting ecosystem, they said.

IBDF members unanimously welcomed the Government’s recent decision to omit Rule 7(11) of the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994, which prescribed the 10+2 advertisement-duration cap, as well as TRAI's subsequent repeal of the Standards of Quality of Service (Duration of Advertisements in Television Channels) Regulations, 2012.

The AGM expressed its appreciation to the Ministry of I&B and TRAI for addressing this longstanding demand of the industry and easing the regulatory constraint.

Members acknowledged IBDF's constructive engagement with the Government and the regulator in securing these outcomes.

Industry leaders, including senior representatives of IBDF member organisations, attended the AGM.

Addressing the AGM, IBDF President Kevin Vaz highlighted television's enduring relevance and the significance of maintaining a united industry voice.

“Television remains deeply embedded in India’s social, cultural and economic fabric. While the sector has faced economic, commercial and regulatory headwinds, its ability to connect with audiences across languages, regions and socio-economic groups remains unparalleled. We may compete vigorously in the marketplace, but on issues affecting the long-term sustainability of broadcasting, members have consistently demonstrated the ability to come together, find common ground and speak with a collective voice,” Vaz said.

“If we continue to collaborate with the same sense of purpose, we can build a stronger, more competitive and sustainable future for Indian broadcasting,” he added.

Television revenues stood at approximately INR 617 billion in 2025, accounting for around 22% of India’s Media and Entertainment sector. The medium continues to reach approximately 831 million viewers every month and 745 million viewers every week, underlining its unmatched scale and importance to audiences and advertisers alike.

IBDF Secretary General and CEO Avinash Pandey emphasised the importance of constructive dialogue, shared purpose and collective responsibility in advancing the industry’s interests.

“The year gone by has reaffirmed the importance of unity and shared purpose. In a rapidly evolving business and regulatory environment, meaningful progress depends on how effectively we bring together our experience, our perspectives and our collective wisdom,” Pandey said.

“There may be differences of opinion, but there should be no differences amongst us when it comes to the greater good of the broadcasting ecosystem. Our responsibility is to look beyond individual interests and stay focused on the long-term growth and sustainability of the industry,” he added.

The AGM took stock of IBDF’s wider engagement with the stakeholders on critical issues, including roadmap for forbearance, evolving telecom regulatory framework, AI, copyright, taxation, piracy and other regulatory matters impacting the sector. Members underscored the importance of a forward-looking policy environment that encourages investment and innovation, protects consumer choice and supports sustainable growth of broadcasting.

The post-AGM luncheon was attended by dignitaries alongside IBDF Board members, industry leaders and representatives of member organisations.