TRAI plans to regulate the HD channels' subscription charges

According to recent PTI reports, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is in the planning stage to review the freedom given to direct-to-home (DTH) service providers in deciding subscription charges for high definition (or HD) channels.

With about 40 HD channels in the country, the DTH operators charge premium for them compared to normal quality channels (standard definition or SD)

The report said, “TRAI is mulling reviewing forbearance regime on HD channels. Consultation paper on the same will be floated next month.”

It seems that, the telecom and broadcast regulatory body has not found much difference between SD and HD viewing experience. There is also little difference in number of advertisements between the two; the report said.

Earlier in 2013 the TRAI had issued directions that TV channels should show only 12 minutes of advertisements in an hour-long program but the same has been challenged by industry. The matter is sub judice.