The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has proposed significant amendments to the existing policy framework governing Television Rating Agencies in India. The move aims to strengthen transparency, accountability, and regulatory oversight of the television rating process.

According to an official MIB notice, the proposed changes will amend the ‘Policy Guidelines for Television Rating Agencies in India’ originally notified on January 16, 2014. The ministry has invited comments and feedback from the general public and stakeholders within 30 days from the date of publication of the draft amendment.

Among the key revisions, Clause 1.1 will be substituted to mandate that any applicant seeking registration for providing television rating services must be a company incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013. Additionally, Clause 1.4 will now bar such companies from engaging in consultancy or any other advisory activities that could present a potential conflict of interest with their primary function of television audience measurement.

Further, Clauses 1.5 and 1.7 of the original guidelines will be deleted along with the proviso placed under Clause 1, which appears below the ‘Explanation’ of Clause 1.7. These changes will not only apply prospectively but also to companies already registered under the existing guidelines.

The Ministry stated that these amendments are being introduced to ensure that the entities involved in television rating activities maintain operational independence and adhere to the highest standards of integrity in their ratings methodology. The full draft amendment and the original 2014 policy guidelines are available on the official MIB website for public access.