Recommendations/2010

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India

Implementation of Digital Addressable Cable TV Systems in India

New Delhi: August 05, 2010
Mahanagar Doorsanchar Bhawan Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg New Delhi- 110 002

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Preface
Cable and Satellite TV services in India have grown exponentially in the last seventeen years. However, the nature of the analogue cable TV services, which forms the bulk of the cable and satellite TV universe, poses a number of problems. Capacity constraints and the non-addressable nature of the analogue cable TV services results in several problems including complex business transactions and a high level of litigation.

Digital technology offers the requisite solution holding the promise of better satisfaction at all levels of the distribution chain including the consumers. Besides, digital addressable systems can enhance the scope of the services offered including broadband services. It is not surprising therefore that, during the consultation process, an overwhelming majority of the stakeholders have favoured early implementation of digitization in the country.

We in the Authority, after duly taking into consideration all aspects, have worked out a framework of implementation of digitization with addressability in India by December 2013. In doing so, we are suggesting several measures such as fiscal incentives, right of way etc. to enable this process.

It is hoped that these recommendations would be acted upon quickly to the benefit of all stakeholders.

(Dr. J. S. Sarma) Chairman, TRAI

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Table of contents
Introduction ……………………………………………………………………….………4 Chapter I. Broadcasting Sector-Nature and Limitations…………………...…….……7 Chapter II. Issues in Digitization with Addressibility ……………………………...38 Chapter III.Roadmap for Digitization with Addressibility..…………………..…….69 Chapter IV. Summary of