Factual
MSOs’ feedback rules out early rollout of CAS
NEW DELHI: An early rollout of CAS looks unlikely, though the government (read the information and broadcasting ministry) would like an early implementation in the four metros in the first phase. This becomes evident from the feedback that some of the MSOs have given to the I&B ministry as had been directed.
Siti Cable, one of the biggest MSOs in the country, with a claimed total subscriber base of over 6 million households, in its reply to the government on CAS yesterday, has indicated that it would be in a position to implement digital conditional access (CA) by April 2003 only. But even this is subject to certain conditions and developments like determination of the price of the basic tier of service.
Out of the four metros targeted in the first phase of CA rollout, Siti Cable has operations in three, excluding Chennai.
RPG too has said in its reply to the I&B ministry that it would take nearly six months to rollout CA on its networks in West Bengal. A majority of RPG’s operation is concentrated in Kolkata and its immediate surrounding areas.
When indiantelevision.com contacted Hinduja Group cable MSO INCableNet’s president Rajiv Vyas yesterday, he had said they were still working on a rollout timeline. INCableNet is the dominant MSO in Mumbai.
However, some of the smaller MSOs and independent cable operators have taken a stand that CA can be rolled out within two months time. Vicky Chowdhary of the National Cable & Telecom Association (NCTA) confirmed to indiantelevision.com that the NCTA, in it’s reply to the ministry, has said it would be possible to initiate a rollout within an eight weeks period.
Reportedly, a similar stand has been taken by Mumbai’s Seven Star which has claimed that it already has experimented with CAS on its network in Mumbai.
Siti Cable in a detailed reply has said that it would prefer to go in for a digital CA which is scalable and can be replicated in the 40-odd cities where it has operations.
It has also said that its rollout plans will also depend on the availability of hardware and, more importantly, the broadcasters’ pricing mechanism for pay channels and the notification of the basic tier of service and its price by the government.
The Zee Telefilms’ cable distribution arm has also pointed out that since it would like to introduce CA on a digital platform, the set-top boxes would have to be imported initially, till such time as India is able to manufacture adequate number of STBs.
In this connection, Siti Cable has also petitioned the I&B ministry to influence the finance ministry in rationalising duty strucutures for import of STBs and possibly go in for a lower duty regime.
A day after getting the CAS issue cleared by the Rajya Sabha (Upper house of parliament) on 10 December, the I&B ministry had called a meeting of MSOs to discuss the rollout plans for CA. The ministry had asked the MSOs to given it a feedback within a day on the individual company’s rollout plans.
Factual
National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
