The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) yesterday released the draft Telecommunications (Television, Radio and Associated Services) Rules, 2026 for public consultation, seeking to create a unified regulatory framework for television, radio and associated broadcasting services under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

The ministry, according to an official statement put out yesterday, said the proposed rules consolidate existing guidelines issued under the erstwhile Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, while retaining continuity and enabling reforms.

Among the key features proposed is the creation of a single regulatory framework in place of the existing system of multiple guidelines. The draft also envisages digital implementation of the authorisation process and simplified procedures for obtaining authorisations.

The ministry further proposed dispensing with the requirement of signing a Grant of Permission Agreement, a move aimed at easing compliance requirements for service providers.

The draft rules also provide for a transparent adjudication mechanism, which the ministry said would contribute to a more streamlined and predictable regulatory environment for broadcasting services.

The ministry said the Telecommunications Act, 2023, which replaced the Telegraph Act of 1885, provides a comprehensive legal framework for telecommunications services. Under the new framework, MIB administers provisions relating to television, radio and associated services. The draft rules have been framed to bring various broadcasting-related guidelines within the ambit of the new law.

According to the ministry, the draft rules seek to harmonise and rationalise existing terms and conditions of authorisation for broadcasting services. Once notified, the rules will replace the multiple guidelines that currently govern television and radio services.

The draft rules for comments could be accessed here:

MIB has placed the draft rules on its website for public and inter-ministerial consultation and can be accessed here: https://mib.gov.in/sites/default/files/2026-06/draft-rules-for-consultation-dated-12th-june-2026_0.pdf.

Stakeholders can submit inputs, comments or suggestions to the Under Secretary (BP&L), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, preferably through email, by July 27. (The image is for representational purpose only as MIB has moved to a new office)