Summary:
Telecom Regulatory Authority India (TRAI) has proposed draft regulations that organize the annual audit cycle for TV distributors with fiscal year, which requires subscriber management, conditional access, and DRM systems to be filled by Sept 30.
Key Changes in Audit Rules
Under the new draft, broadcasters can send representatives to the for inputs without affecting the process, while distributors must provide a 30-day advance notification about audit schedule and auditor details. Small distributors with 30,000 or fewer subscribers are exempt from mandatory annual audits, though broadcasters can request one every year at their own expense.
Dispute Resolution and Penalties
Unsolved issues can be raised to TRAI for special audit at the cost of broadcasters. The fine is closed at ₹1000 per day for 30 days and every day ₹2000, capped at ₹2 lakh.
By aligning audits with the financial year, including DRM inspection, and creating a structured dispute system, the purpose of TRAI is to increase transparency and responsibility in the broadcasting sector.
