UMBAI: India’s ministry of Information and broadcasting has issued an advisory on 17 January outlining significant changes to the registration process for local cable operators (LCOs) and multi-system operators (MSOs) under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995.
The advisory highlights that, as per Section 3 of the Act, operating a cable television network without registration is prohibited. Applicants are now required to register or renew their registration online through the newly established Broadcast Seva Portal. This modernised approach addresses long-standing concerns regarding the cumbersome manual registration processes previously employed.
Pursuant to the above, the central government has now introduced key amendments to the Rule vide Notification S. 0. No. 65(E) dated 17 January2025. Further, in exercise of powers conferred under clause (h) of Section 2 of the CTN Act, 1995, a notification vide S.O. No.315(E) dated 17 January , 2025 notifying the section Officer and additional joint secretary to be the registering authorities for LCOs and MSOs respectively, has been issued.
Key amendments outlined in the advisory include:
Online Registration: LCO registration will be facilitated online via the Broadcast Seva Portal.
Validity Extension: The registration will now be valid for five years, increased from one year.
Processing Fee: The registration fee has been set at Rs 5,000.
National Registration Number: Registered LCOs will receive a unique National Registration Number valid throughout India.
The new registering authority for LCOs will be designated section officers handling digital addressable systems (DAS) in the ministry. Additionally, applicants will need to verify their identity online using PAN, Aadhaar, and other required documents, with Aadhaar sharing being voluntary.
Current LCOs are urged to apply for their registration renewal at least 90 days before expiration. Those with applications pending at local head post offices must withdraw and reapply through the Broadcast Seva Portal.
The Ministry encourages all interested parties to take immediate action and offers support via a dedicated helpline (011-23381707) and toll-free number (18002127307), which are also available on the portal.
These changes aim to streamline the registration process and enhance the operational framework for cable television networks in India.
The advisory can be downloaded from this link b clicking on the word advisory
The notification of the process of registration can be downloaded by clicking on the word notification
The notification empowering the section officer for LCOs and the additional joint secretary in the case of MSOs can downloaded by clicking on the word notification.
