India: Telecom Regulatory Authority opened consultation on regulatory framework for application-based linear television distribution services

On 6 April 2026, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India opened a consultation on a regulatory framework for application-based linear television distribution services, until 4 May 2026. The framework applies to all entities distributing linear television channels over the internet through smart television applications, downloadable applications, or web browsers. It was stated that the market constitutes over 116 million users in India, and revenues are projected to reach 104 million United States Dollars by 2027. It proposes bringing application providers under a formal authorisation regime as distribution service providers, requiring that only Ministry of Information and Broadcasting-permitted channels be carried on application-based linear television distribution platforms, establishing pricing parity for pay channels, and introducing consumer protection and grievance redressal obligations.