DTH operators to get same bouquet as Non-CAS cable

New Delhi, Apr 18 (UNI) The broadcasters will offer the same bouquet to the DTH operators as is being offered by them for non-CAS cable distribution.

The decision in this regard was taken after discussions between the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India(TRAI) and broadcasters.

TRAI has finalised the road map for speedy conclusion of interconnection agreement between the broadcasters and the DTH licensees.

It has based its decisions on the interactive discussions with the broadcasters of pay channels in the context of rates and packaging of channels being offered by them for Direct To Home Platform.

Existing rules require the broadcasters to publish their Reference Interconnect Offers specifying the technical and commercial terms and conditions for interconnection for the DTH operators.

The regulation makes it compulsory for the broadcasters to offer their pay channels on a-la-carte basis, in addition to the bouquets to the DTH operators.

During the course of the discussions, a general consensus emerged on the composition of bouquets and pricing of a-la-carte channels and bouquets.

The a-la-carte rates and bouquet rates of pay channels, as reported by the broadcasters for cable TV operations in non-CAS area have also been put up on the website of the authority today.

It is expected that the above will facilitate and expedite the conclusion of interconnection agreements among the broadcasters and DTH operators.

TRAI, however, clarified that the rates placed on its website should not be taken as approved by it or as rates applicable at the consumer's end.

It may also be noted that the channels not mentioned in the list may be considered as Free to Air (FTA) channel for non-CAS areas, it said.

UNI NAZ SK PM1915