MIB cancels 114 MSO registrations; over 1,159 operators exit sector

The move is part of the government’s continued effort to streamline the cable distribution ecosystem and enforce stricter adherence to regulatory and licensing norms

by e4m Staff
Published: Mar 23, 2026 11:53 AM | 1 min read

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has cancelled the registrations of 114 multi-system operators (MSOs) across India due to non-compliance, denial of security clearance by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), or suppression of information.

According to the latest data released by the ministry (as of February 28, 2026), a total of 1,159 MSOs have ceased operations nationwide. This includes operators whose registrations were cancelled, surrendered, or allowed to lapse due to non-compliance.

The move is part of the government’s continued effort to streamline the cable distribution ecosystem and enforce stricter adherence to regulatory and licensing norms. The cancellations also reflect increased scrutiny of operators failing to meet compliance requirements or security clearances.

Following this clean-up exercise, the total number of registered MSOs in the country currently stands at 756.

A similar clean-up exercise was visible last year as well. As of March 31, 2025, a total of 1,045 MSO registrations had either expired, been surrendered, or were cancelled due to non-compliance. In addition, over 114 MSO applications were rejected or cancelled on grounds such as suppression of information and non-payment of dues.

The number of registered MSOs stood at 845 as of March 2025, compared to 756 currently, indicating a further decline in active operators. The continued drop highlights the ministry’s sustained enforcement drive and points toward gradual consolidation in the cable TV distribution sector.