Information and Broadcasting Ministry notified Cable Television Networks Rules, 2012

The information and broadcasting (I&B) ministry of India on 28 April 2012 notified the much awaited Cable Television Networks Rules, 2012, which paves the way for digitalisation of the sector.

The I&B ministry has set 30 June 2012 as the date for digitalisation of the cable sector in the four metros and these cable rules would provide the framework on which the digitalised cable networks would provide services.

As per the new rules, cable operators and multi-sector operators (MSOs) will now have to ensure that they have the capacity to carry minimum number of channels as specified by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai). MSOs, under the new rules, will have to buy back set top boxes from subscribers in case they are leaving the area. A provision to surrender Set Top Box back has also been provided under the new rule.