Trai may regulate subscription charges for HD channels

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) is planning to review the freedom given to direct-to-home (DTH) service providers in deciding subscription charges for high definition (or HD) channels.

There are about 40 HD channels in the country and DTH operators charge premium for them compared to normal quality channels (standard definition or SD).

"Trai is mulling reviewing forbearance regime on HD channels. Consultation paper on the same will be floated next month," an official source told PTI.

The telecom and broadcast regulatory body has not found much difference between SD and HD viewing experience, the source added.

"There is also little difference in number of advertisements between the two," the official said.

In 2013, Trai had issued directions that TV channels should show only 12 minutes of advertisements in an hour-long programme but the same has been challenged by industry. The matter is sub-judice.