India: Opened consultation on TRAI National Broadcasting Policy Paper

On 21 September 2023, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) issued the Pre-consultation paper on ''National Broadcasting Policy'' and opened a public consultation until 10 October 2023. The paper discusses the development of the Indian Media and Entertainment sector, including television and digital media, and various segments within the broadcasting sector. Furthermore, it highlights the decline in TV industry revenue in 2022, the significance of subscription revenue, and the popularity of radio. In addition, the paper notes the need for a comprehensive National Broadcasting Policy and suggests a framework comprising a preamble, vision, mission, objectives (with goals and strategies), and broad considerations. The issues emphasised in the paper include universal reach, content promotion, R&D investment, local content, piracy and technology innovation.