The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released a consultation paper yesterday, addressing the audit-related provisions of the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulations, 2017, as well as the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Digital Addressable Systems Audit Manual.

This move aligns with the full digitization of the cable TV sector, following TRAI‘s notification of the Regulatory Framework for Broadcasting and Cable Services on March 3, 2017, which included the Interconnection Regulation. TRAI later issued the Audit Manual on November 8, 2019, to further solidify the regulatory framework.

TRAI’s overarching goal is to foster a fair and equitable environment for all stakeholders within the broadcasting and cable services industry. The Interconnection Regulation, in particular, establishes a trust-based system through third-party auditors. This system is designed to balance the varied interests of service providers, including broadcasters and distributors, while ensuring that consumer interests remain a priority. Independent audits are central to the principles outlined in the Interconnection Regulations. However, feedback from stakeholders has indicated that certain amendments to these audit provisions are necessary.

Furthermore, following the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s (MIB) acceptance of TRAI‘s recommendations on “Sharing of Infrastructure in Television Broadcasting Distribution Sector,” issued on March 29, 2017, new guidelines for infrastructure sharing have been introduced. As a result, it has become essential to review and update the current framework, incorporating these enabling provisions into both the Interconnection Regulation 2017 and the Audit Manual.

The consultation paper seeks to address several key issues, including:

• Proposed amendments to the audit-related provisions in the Interconnection Regulation 2017.
• Necessary changes to the Audit Manual.
• Incorporation of enabling provisions for infrastructure sharing within the Interconnection Regulation 2017 and the Audit Manual.

TRAI is inviting comments and suggestions from stakeholders to ensure that the revised regulations and audit procedures reflect the needs and concerns of the industry, while continuing to protect the interests of consumers.