TRAI releases Recommendations on ‘Authorisation Framework for Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) Services’

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released recommendations on an 'Authorisation Framework for Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) Services' following a reference from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The recommendations propose introducing ALTD Services as a distinct sub-category under 'Television Channel Distribution Services' within the broadcasting authorisation framework of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. The framework covers applications aggregating and distributing scheduled linear TV channels and Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) services over public Internet or IP-based networks. It outlines a light-touch regulatory approach involving an online portal, an application processing fee of ₹10,000, a one-time entry fee of ₹1 lakh with no bank guarantee or security deposit, and a validity of 20 years. Additionally, the recommendations specify obligations for Original Equipment Manufacturers and Operating System providers, consumer grievance redressal, registration of Internet-native linear television channels, and the integration of ALTD viewership into the television audience measurement framework.