TRAI Recommendations on Application-based Linear TV Distribution
Ministry of Communications · Governance · Posted 26 OCT 2026 4:13PM
What happened
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released recommendations on an Authorisation Framework for Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) Services, including Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) Services. The framework proposes integrating ALTD services under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, with light-touch licensing, grievance redressal, and audience measurement integration.
Why it matters for UPSC
This decision illustrates the evolving regulatory challenges in India's digital broadcasting sector, highlighting the intersection of telecommunications law, media governance, and consumer protection under UPSC syllabus themes like government policies and interventions for development in various sectors.
Key objectives
- Introduce ALTD Service as a distinct sub-category under Television Channel Distribution Services via Section 3(1)(a) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
- Propose a light-touch authorisation framework with an application processing fee of ₹10,000, a one-time entry fee of ₹1 lakh, 20 years validity, and no authorisation fee, bank guarantee, or security deposit.
- Mandate OEMs and OS providers to distribute only authorised ALTD applications via a Master ALTD app repository maintained by MIB.
- Integrate ALTD viewership into the television audience measurement framework.