MIB unveils draft broadcasting rules under unified framework

MUMBAI: The government is hitting the refresh button on broadcasting’s rulebook bringing television, radio and IPTV under one regulatory roof. India’s broadcasting sector could be headed for its biggest regulatory overhaul in years, with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) releasing the draft Telecommunications (Television, Radio and Associated Services) Rules, 2026 for public consultation.

The proposed framework seeks to replace a patchwork of legacy regulations with a single rulebook covering television channels, Direct-to-Home (DTH) services, Headend-in-the-Sky (HITS) platforms, private FM radio, community radio stations and Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) services under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

At the heart of the draft is a push towards greater public-interest programming. Television channels would be required to air at least 30 minutes of content every day on themes of national importance and social relevance between 6 am and 11 pm. Suggested topics range from education, agriculture and healthcare to science, women’s welfare, environmental protection and national integration.

Radio broadcasters face similar obligations. Private FM stations would need to dedicate a minimum of one hour daily to socially relevant programming, while ensuring that at least 20 per cent of their daily content is locally produced. The draft also reiterates that private radio services must remain free-to-air and cannot charge listeners for access.

The proposed rules tighten operational expectations as well. Television channels would be required to remain active throughout the validity of their authorisation. Channels going off air for more than 60 consecutive days must notify the government and explain the reasons. If operations remain suspended for over 90 continuous days, the authorisation could automatically lapse unless the disruption stems from a government directive.

Beyond content, the framework introduces a comprehensive authorisation regime covering television channels, distribution services, teleports, television news agencies, private radio services and community radio operators. Eligibility criteria, security conditions, reporting obligations and renewal procedures have all been brought under a unified structure.

IPTV services also receive formal recognition. Under the proposal, entities already holding internet service authorisations or multi-system operator registrations would be able to offer IPTV services by filing a declaration with the government, potentially simplifying market entry for eligible operators.

One notable provision could have implications for audience measurement and distribution strategies. Broadcasters would be required to disclose information related to landing-page placements to both the government and television ratings agencies. The draft defines landing pages as the default channels viewers see when switching on their set-top boxes or navigating channels without making a specific selection.

Compliance requirements have also been expanded. Broadcasters would need to preserve recordings of programmes and advertisements for 90 days and furnish them to authorities when requested. Any ownership change resulting in a shift in control or complete management overhaul would require prior government approval.

Security remains another major focus. Broadcasters, key managerial personnel and governing body members would be required to maintain security clearance throughout the validity of their authorisations. Foreign personnel involved in the installation, maintenance or operation of broadcasting networks would also need prior security approval before deployment.

The draft proposes authorisation periods of 10 years for television channels, teleports, television news agencies and community radio services, 15 years for private FM radio operators and 20 years for television channel distribution services.

Existing licence holders operating under earlier broadcasting guidelines will be allowed to transition to the new regime, offering a pathway from the current fragmented system to the proposed unified framework.

With comments invited until 27 July 2026, the draft signals the government’s intent to modernise broadcasting regulation as traditional television, radio and internet-based services increasingly converge in a rapidly evolving media landscape.