The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) yesterday announced a comprehensive overhaul of the television audience measurement framework, introducing structural and governance reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, competition and reliability in Television Rating Points (TRPs) involving audience measurements.

In a significant departure from the existing policy, the government has removed entry barriers for rating agencies by doing away with restrictive clauses that had effectively created a single-agency ecosystem. The revised guidelines pave the way for multiple entities to operate in the TV ratings space, subject to adherence to prescribed norms, thereby promoting competition and innovation.

For example, the government has eased net worth norms for TV rating agencies reducing eligibility criteria to Rs. 5 crore from Rs. 20 crore earlier.

The new policy, according to an MIB statement yesterday, also strengthens oversight mechanisms by mandating stricter disclosure norms and audit requirements. Rating agencies will now be required to ensure greater transparency in their methodologies, including sample selection and data processing systems, addressing long-standing concerns over credibility and manipulation of TRP data.

The TV Rating Policy 2026 replaces the existing Guidelines for TV Rating Agencies in India dated 16th January 2014. The TV Rating Policy 2026 is available on the website of the Ministry.

Another key reform relates to cross-holding restrictions. The updated guidelines aim to minimize conflicts of interest by tightening norms on ownership patterns between broadcasters, advertisers and rating agencies. This is expected to reinforce the independence and neutrality of audience measurement systems.

The Ministry has also emphasized the need for a more robust and representative sample base. The revised framework encourages expansion of measurement coverage across diverse geographies, including rural and underserved markets, to better capture India’s heterogeneous viewing patterns.

Further, the policy introduces provisions for periodic review and compliance monitoring to ensure that rating agencies operate within the stipulated framework. Non-compliance may attract penalties, including suspension or cancellation of registration, as part of a stricter regulatory regime.

The MIB said the reforms are aimed at restoring trust in the ratings system, ensuring fair play in the broadcasting sector, and aligning India’s audience measurement ecosystem with global best practices.