Broadcast regulator TRAI has once again extended the effective implementation date of the new tariff regime for all stakeholders. The new deadline is December 2022. Reason: ongoing consultation process relating to the issue.

“All the distributors of television channels shall ensure that services to the subscribers, with effect from 30th November 2022, are provided as per the bouquets or channels opted by them,” TRAI said in an advisory posted on its website Friday.

According to an earlier directive from the regulator, the tariff regime was to have started from June 1. As per that plan, the broadcasters were to have submitted their new rates by February-end and the distribution platforms to have finalised the new structure by March-end.

On receiving representations from stakeholders, especially LCO trade associations, highlighting the difficulties likely to be faced by them in implementing the new regulatory framework on tariff, TRAI engaged with everybody on an informal and formal basis through a series of interactions.

“Subsequently, a committee was constituted under the aegis of the TRAI, consisting of members from the Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation, the All India Digital Cable Federation and DTH Association, to look into the process of smooth implementation of the provisions of the New Regulatory Framework 2020 keeping in view consumers benefit and suggest measures thereof, and to identify impediments with counter measures for overall growth of the broadcasting sector,” the regulator said in advisory that’s dated June1.

The said committee listed several issues related to the New Regulatory Framework 2020 for consideration. The stakeholders also requested the regulator to immediately address critical issues so as to have smooth implementation of the new tariff regime, popularly known as NTO 2.0.

Now, all the broadcasters shall report to the Authority, any change in name, nature, language, maximum retail price (MRP) per month of channels, and composition and MRP of bouquets of channels as per NTO 2.0 by August 31, while the distribution platforms were to finalise their rates by September 30.

Broadcasters and  distribution platforms who have already submitted their rates and other details to TRAI can revise them by August and September deadlines, respectively, TRAI has said.