The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) released the draft Telecommunications (Television, Radio and Associated Services) Rules, 2026, for public consultation, with comments open until July 27. The draft aims to unify television channels, Direct-to-Home (DTH) operators, Headend-in-the-Sky (HITS) platforms, private FM radio stations, community radio stations, teleports, television news agencies, and Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) services under a single authorisation framework, as per medianama.com.
The draft introduces six categories of authorisation: Television channel, Television channel distribution service (covering DTH and HITS), Teleport, News agency for television, Private radio service, and Community radio service. This new framework replaces the existing patchwork of licences and permissions issued under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and related broadcasting guidelines. Existing licensees can migrate to the new authorisation regime while their current permissions remain valid, ensuring a transition period for compliance.
A key update in the draft is the formal recognition of IPTV services under the new authorisation system, marking a significant regulatory shift. The consolidation under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, aims to streamline compliance and oversight across diverse broadcasting platforms. This move aligns with broader efforts to modernize India’s broadcasting regulatory environment and reduce fragmentation in licensing.
The public consultation period for the draft rules closes on July 27, after which the MIB will review feedback before finalising the regulations. The draft document and consultation details are available on the Ministry’s website, providing stakeholders an opportunity to influence the future broadcasting framework.