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The total number of internet subscribers in India stood at 969.10 million in March 2025, up from 954.40 million in the previous year, a 1.54% growth, reveals the TRAI's yearly data. Of these, 944.12 million are broadband users, reflecting a 2.17% increase from the previous year. In contrast, narrowband users declined 17.66%, dropping to 24.98 million.

The number of wireless data users also climbed to 939.51 million, up 2.87% year-on-year. Supporting this surge, total wireless data consumption jumped 17.46%, from 1,94,774 PB in FY24 to 2,28,779 PB in FY25. Correspondingly, revenue from wireless data usage rose 15.49% to Rs 2,15,078 crore.

The Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) for wireless services rose sharply by 16.89% to Rs 174.46. Prepaid ARPU also grew, but postpaid saw a marginal dip. Minutes of usage per subscriber climbed from 963 to 1000 minutes/month, with prepaid usage leading the charge.

As per the data, wireless subscriptions fell slightly by 0.73%, dropping to 1,156.99 million, while wireless teledensity declined to 81.94%. Conversely, wireline subscriptions grew 9.62% to 37.04 million, boosting wireline teledensity to 2.62%, driven by improved rural and urban connectivity.

Additionally, the telecom sector’s financial health showed encouraging signs in the fiscal year 2024–25. Gross revenue rose by 10.72% to Rs 3,72,097 crore, while Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) grew by 12.02% to Rs 3,03,025 crore, reflecting robust performance and sustained consumer demand. Additionally, Spectrum Usage Charges (SUC) and license fees increased by 13.02% and 12.02%, respectively, indicating higher network utilization and regulatory contributions. Notably, access services which include mobile and wireless connectivity accounted for a substantial 83.65% of the AGR, underscoring the continued dominance and consumer reliance on mobile networks as the primary communication backbone in India.

As of March 2025, India’s broadcasting and DTH landscape presented a mixed picture. A total of 918 satellite TV channels were permitted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, out of which 333 were categorized as pay TV channels. In the Direct-to-Home (DTH) segment, the number of active pay DTH subscribers saw a decline, falling to 56.92 million from 61.97 million the previous year. The private FM radio sector also saw consolidation, with the number of operators reducing to 33, although the total number of operational stations remained steady at 388 across 113 cities. 

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/reliance-jio-leads-broadband-services-sector-with-474-81-mn-subscribers-reveals-trai-data-51444.htm">Reliance Jio leads broadband services sector with 474.81 mn subscribers, reveals TRAI data</a>

In contrast, community radio witnessed growth, with the number of operational stations increasing to 531, up from 494 a year ago, reflecting a continued push towards hyper-local, grassroots-level broadcasting.

India’s telecom and digital media sectors have recorded a year of mixed growth, according to the 2024–25 annual performance review released by the Telecom Regularity Authority of India (TRAI). While broadband adoption and revenue indicators show positive momentum, teledensity and wireless subscriptions have taken a slight dip.

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/jio-and-airtel-sustain-broadband-supremacy-amid-modest-industry-growth-trai-64918.htm">Jio and Airtel sustain broadband supremacy amid modest industry growth: TRAI</a>

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/digital/telecom-revenue-surges-internet-base-shrinks-slightly-in-q1-2025-trai-71384.htm">Telecom revenue surges; internet base shrinks slightly in Q1 2025: TRAI</a>

India nears 1 billion internet users as broadband base hits 944 million: TRAI

The Broadband India Forum (BIF) has written to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), countering recent claims made by an industry association- the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) and pushed back against the latter’s demand for a review of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) recommendations on satcom spectrum allocation.


In its detailed letter dated June 18, 2025 (a copy of which Storyboard18 has seen), BIF denounced the COAI’s argument for a “level playing field” between terrestrial and satellite services as factually incorrect, legally untenable, and constitutionally flawed. 

It argued that such comparisons fundamentally misunderstand the technological, commercial, and regulatory distinctions between the two communication systems.

COAI had reportedly claimed that TRAI’s proposed lower spectrum usage charges (SUC) for next-generation satellite services, especially for non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) systems like Starlink and Amazon Kuiper, would promote “regulatory arbitrage” and hurt telcos. 


Read more: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/indian-telcos-slam-trais-satellite-spectrum-pricing-as-unjustifiably-low-68653.htm">Indian telcos slam TRAI’s satellite spectrum pricing as 'unjustifiably low'</a>



Rejecting these allegations, BIF asserted that the association's entire argument rested on a flawed notion of “substitutability,” wrongly equating the capacity, reach, and market intent of satellite services with terrestrial telecom. “The argument that satellite and terrestrial services are substitutable is grossly erroneous— both in law and in fact,” BIF said. The Forum emphasized that Article 14 of the Constitution, which enshrines the principle of equality, also upholds reasonable classification and differential treatment—and satellite and terrestrial operators belong to inherently distinct classes. Attempting to equate the two, it said, is both unjust and economically irrational.

"TRAI followed mandate, COAI distorted its intent"

Another major point of contention lies in COAI’s reading of DoT’s original reference to TRAI. While COAI interpreted it as a directive to ensure parity between satellite and terrestrial players, BIF clarified that the language clearly asked TRAI to merely “account for” a level playing field, not guarantee one.

“TRAI’s consultation was comprehensive, spanning over 36 pages of analysis on this issue,” BIF wrote, adding that the regulator had examined spectrum allocation, pricing models, service obligations, and network capabilities in depth. BIF further accused COAI of selectively quoting capacity projections of satellite players like Starlink and Kuiper to bolster its case. These, it said, were future-oriented and based on unverified assumptions. In contrast, actual capacity assigned to India from Starlink’s global network is estimated to be just 2.1 Tbps, barely 1% of the capacity held by leading Indian telcos.

BIF also dismissed COAI’s claim that satellite operators were enjoying favorable spectrum charges. On the contrary, the Forum argued, satcom operators face higher per-user spectrum costs in urban markets and carry massive CAPEX burdens for satellite launches, gateway infrastructure, and international licensing. BIF noted that even without revenue, a satcom operator would pay Rs 500 per customer per year in SUC—almost twice as much as terrestrial operators.

Moreover, the spectrum assignment period for satcom services is proposed at just five years, versus 20 years for telcos, further increasing the investment risk for satellite firms.

Read more:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/trai-recommends-5-year-satellite-spectrum-allocation-extendable-by-two-65262.htm"> TRAI recommends 5-year satellite spectrum allocation, extendable by two</a>


Further, BIF argued that COAI’s own member companies have signed commercial partnerships with satellite operators. This contradicts COAI’s argument that satellite services compete directly with terrestrial ones.

“In the present case, it may be noted that the Association’s claims are far detached from reality as its own members have made public announcements of forming a business/commercial partnership with global satellite service providers, thereby demonstrating complementarity between terrestrial and satellite services,” it said.

The think tank, in response to COAI’s objection to subsidising satcom terminals through the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) fund, also pointed out that such support was lawful and aligned with national connectivity goals.

“This dual stance, claiming competition in regulatory forums while embracing collaboration in the market, amounts to misleading the public, the government, and the regulator,” BIF said.

This conflict stems from TRAI’s May 9, 2025 recommendations on assigning spectrum for commercial satellite-based communication services, especially low Earth orbit systems. TRAI had suggested that spectrum should not be auctioned for satcom, unlike for terrestrial telcos, and had proposed a hybrid pricing model that includes administrative fees and a revenue share.


Read more: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/govt-tightens-satcom-rules-mandates-legal-interception-of-satcom-services-bars-data-routing-outside-country-64628.htm">Govt tightens satcom rules; mandates legal interception of satcom services, bars data routing outside country</a>


While satellite players and industry groups like BIF welcomed the move as a step toward universal digital inclusion, COAI pushed back, alleging unfair regulatory advantage and a threat to the telecom industry’s revenue.

In early November last year, TRAI concluded an open-house discussion on the terms and conditions for the allocation of spectrum to satellite-based commercial communication services.

Telecom industry giants such as Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have pushed for satellite spectrum to be allocated via auctions, a move they argue would ensure nationwide mobility services. Conversely, satellite communication firms, including major players like Elon Musk’s Starlink, Amazon’s Project Kuiper, and other global companies, have lobbied for an administrative allocation of the spectrum.

Broadband India Forum rebuts COAI's claims on satcom spectrum; says telcos misleading DoT on TRAI’s recommendations

India’s total telecom subscriber base has crossed 1.2 billion in the quarter ending March 2025, driven largely by rural growth and wireless additions, even as the internet subscriber base saw a marginal dip, according to the latest “Indian Telecom Services Performance Indicator Report” released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

As per the TRAI data, the total number of telephone subscribers rose from 1,189.92 million at the end of December 2024 to 1,200.80 million in March 2025, marking a 0.91% quarterly growth. Rural India led the charge, with rural subscriptions growing from 527.20 million to 534.69 million and rural teledensity rising to 59.06%. Urban teledensity also saw a slight increase to 131.45%.

Internet and Broadband See Contraction

Despite overall telecom growth, the total internet subscriber base declined slightly from 970.16 million in December 2024 to 969.10 million by March 2025, a 0.11% drop. Of this, wireless internet users were 927.70 million, while wired internet connections stood at 41.41 million.

The broadband subscriber base decreased by 0.09% to 944.12 million, while narrowband users dipped to 24.98 million.

However, the number of wireline subscribers saw a sharp 5.67% quarterly decline, falling to 37.04 million. This is attributed to the reclassification of 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) subscribers under the wireless category. Yet, on a year-on-year basis, wireline connections grew by 9.62%, indicating rising adoption of fiber and enterprise-grade broadband.

Wireline teledensity also declined to 2.62% from 2.79% the previous quarter.

Wireless subscriptions, including 5G FWA, rose from 1,150.66 million to 1,163.76 million, up by 1.14% QoQ. Pure mobile wireless users (excluding FWA) rose to 1,156.99 million.

Wireless teledensity increased to 82.42%, even as the year-on-year growth rate for mobile users saw a slight decline of 0.73%.

ARPU, MOU and Revenue Continue Upward Trend

Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) for wireless services grew 0.64% to Rs 182.95 in Q1 2025, with prepaid ARPU at Rs 182.53 and postpaid ARPU at Rs 187.48. Year-on-year ARPU increased 19.16%.

Monthly average Minutes of Usage (MOU) per subscriber rose to 1,026, with prepaid MOU significantly higher at 1,074 compared to postpaid’s 514.

The telecom sector clocked a Gross Revenue (GR) of Rs 98,250 crore, with Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) at Rs 79,226 crore, a 1.66% quarterly rise and 12.44% increase year-on-year. License fees also rose 1.69% to Rs 6,340 crore.

Access services accounted for over 84% of the total AGR.

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/jio-and-airtel-sustain-broadband-supremacy-amid-modest-industry-growth-trai-64918.htm">Jio and Airtel sustain broadband supremacy amid modest industry growth: TRAI</a>

Digital TV and Radio Show Mixed Signals

India had 333 active satellite pay TV channels as of March 31, 2025, out of 908 permitted channels comprising 232 SD and 101 HD channels.

Pay DTH services registered a dip, with active subscribers falling from 58.22 million in December 2024 to 56.92 million in March 2025. This is exclusive of the DD Free Dish platform.

In private FM radio, the total number of operational channels remained at 388 across 113 cities, despite a consolidation involving six channels across Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata merging into South Asia FM Ltd, reducing the number of private FM operators from 36 to 33.

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/trai-reports-0-87-drop-in-wireless-subscribers-in-september-bsnl-gains-ground-48152.htm">TRAI reports 0.87% drop in wireless subscribers in September; BSNL gains ground</a>

Telecom revenue surges; internet base shrinks slightly in Q1 2025: TRAI

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a directive making it mandatory for all telecom licensees offering internet telephony services using mobile numbering series to conduct Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, similar to the process followed for regular cellular mobile services.

In a circular dated June 16, 2025, the DoT noted that some licensees with Access Service Authorization have been providing internet telephony under the "Business Connection" category without carrying out proper KYC, arguing that existing guidelines apply only to cellular mobile service providers.


"It has come to the notice of the Department that some of the licensee having Access Service authorization are providing Internet Telephony services under the "Business Connection" category using mobile numbering series but without conducting end-user KYC as per the existing instructions dated 31.08.2023. These licensees are claiming that the existing KYC instructions are applicable only to those licensees who are providing Cellular Mobile Services.


Read more:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/dot-mandates-telcos-to-implement-inclusive-digital-kyc-processes-following-sc-judgement-67056.htm"> DoT mandates telcos to implement inclusive digital KYC processes following SC judgement</a>


In this regard, the matter has been examined and the competent authority has directed to convey that the extant KYC instructions, issued for Cellular Mobile Services from time to time, are applicable mutatis mutandis on all licensees holding Access Service authorization and providing Internet Telephony services using mobile numbering series. Terminology such as SIM Card, IMSI, etc., as mentioned mandatory in the extant instructions may be applied wherever relevant. Relevant license conditions related to business (bulk) connections shall also be followed scrupulously," the advisory said.


Clarifying this ambiguity, the department has stated that the extant KYC instructions issued for cellular mobile services are mutatis mutandis applicable to all licensees providing internet telephony services using mobile numbers. This means that telecom players must implement customer verification protocols, including terminology such as SIM card and IMSI, wherever relevant, even in internet-based voice services.


The circular emphasizes that any violation of this directive will be treated as a breach of license terms, attracting penal consequences. All such internet telephony connections must be brought into compliance within 90 days of the notification.


"Any non-compliance observed after issuance of this letter will be treated as breach of the terms and conditions of the license agreement and shall attract penal actions. All Internet Telephony connections must be brought into compliance with the existing instructions within 90 days from the date of issuance of this letter," it said.

The move comes amid growing concerns over unverified users accessing telecom services via internet platforms, which poses both security and regulatory risks.

DoT mandates KYC for internet telephony services using mobile numbers

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has directed all Multi System Operators (MSOs) in the country to submit details of their Conditional Access Systems (CAS) and Subscriber Management Systems (SMS) to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) by June 20, 2025.

The move follows a regulatory overhaul by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), aimed at standardizing television distribution systems to improve transparency, data security, and service delivery in the cable TV ecosystem.

According to the MIB advisory dated June 16, 2025, MSOs must share system-specific information, including the model, version, and date of deployment of the CAS and SMS being used in their networks. 

The directive is based on an earlier communication issued by the DoT on May 28, asking all cable operators to furnish this information in a prescribed format via email. Operators are required to email their submissions to jto-cb@gov.in, with copies marked to dircb2.tec-dot@gov.in and ddgcb.tec@gov.in. The subject line must clearly state “Details of CAS & SMS deployed.”

This compliance measure stems from TRAI’s amendment to the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection Regulations, 2017. The amended regulation, introduced under Section 4A, mandates that all distributors of television channels use CAS and SMS systems that are certified under the newly introduced Schedule IX. These systems are integral to managing subscribers, securing digital transmissions, and ensuring that only authorized users can access content.

"TRAI had notified amendment to the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulations, 2017 inserting, inter-alia, therein Regulation 4A. Sub-regulation (1) (hereinafter referred to as ‘the regulation”) of these regulations states that every distributor of television channel shall, from such date and after such testing and certification, as may be specified by the Authority by order, deploy such conditional access system and subscriber management system which conform to the requirements as specified in the Schedule IX: Provided that for the conditional access systems and subscriber management systems already deployed before the date of issue of the order referred to in this sub-regulation, the Authority shall specify a separate timeline within which such systems shall get tested and certified to meet the requirements as specified in the Schedule IX.” 

The DoT has entrusted the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) with the responsibility of registering and certifying these systems. TEC now serves as the nodal agency for overseeing the deployment of CAS and SMS solutions across the broadcasting sector.

"TRAI had designated the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (hereinafter referred 10 8 “TEC”), Department of Telecommunication (hereinafter referred “DoT") Testing and Certification Agency," advisory stated.

Distributors using older systems are required to get them certified afresh to ensure they meet the revised standards.  "All registered Multi System Operators (MSOs) are hereby advised to furnish the requisite information in the (mentioned) format," it said. 

Ministry of I&B directs cable TV operators to submit CAS, SMS details to DoT by June 20

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released the Telecommunication Tariff (71st Amendment) Order, 2025, on Tariff for retail broadband connectivity for Public Data Offices (PDOs) under the PM-WANI Scheme.

Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, Government of India, in its communication to TRAI highlighted that the proliferation of the PM-WANI scheme was significantly below the envisaged targets. One of the reasons cited for this low proliferation of PM-WANI was the high cost of internet connectivity charged by Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs). It was also stated that TSPs and ISPs often required Public Data Offices (PDOs) to connect public Wi-Fi access points using expensive Internet Leased Lines (ILL) under the name of commercial agreements.

In this regard, TRAI issued the Draft Telecommunication Tariff (70th Amendment) Order, 2024, on 23rd August 2024 proposing that the tariff for broadband services provided to PDOs under the PM-WANI scheme aligned with retail broadband Fiber to the Home (FTTH) tariffs. Comments and counter-comments were invited from stakeholders on the proposed framework. In response to the same, comments and counter-comments from stakeholders were received.

Subsequently, on 16th September 2024, DoT issued amendments to PM-WANI framework by removing the requirement for PDOs to enter commercial agreements with TSPs for internet connectivity.

In the light of DoT’s amendment dated 16th September 2024, stakeholders’  comments and counter-comments received on Draft TTO (70th amendment) and further internal analysis, the Authority issued revised draft Telecommunication Tariff (71st Amendment) Order on 15th January 2025 proposing that the broadband tariff (FTTH) for PDOs under the PM-WANI scheme should not exceed twice the tariff applicable for retail broadband (FTTH) services of corresponding capacity offered by service providers. Comments and counter-comments were invited from stakeholders on the proposed framework. In response to the same, comments and counter-comments from stakeholders were received. As part of the consultation process, an Open House Discussion (OHD) was also held on 8th April 2025 to seek views of the stakeholders.

Based on the above, TRAI has finalized its TTO (71st amendment), 2025 on Tariff for retail broadband connectivity for Public Data Offices (PDOs) under the PM-WANI Scheme.

To ensure a balanced and inclusive approach, TRAI prescribes the following tariff framework for the PM-WANI Scheme:

“Every service provider providing retail Fiber to the Home (FTTH) broadband services shall offer all of its retail FTTH broadband plans upto 200 Mbps to the PDOs under the PM-WANI scheme, at tariff not exceeding twice the tariff applicable to the retail subscribers for the corresponding FTTH broadband plan of the bandwidth (capacity) offered.”

This pricing framework has been designed to appropriately balance the interests of all stakeholders by ensuring affordability for small-scale Public Data Offices (PDOs) while also providing reasonable compensation for the broadband connection to the service providers. The proposed tariff framework takes into account prevailing market scenario, current levels of adoption of PM-WANI services, as well as potential future growth. 

By aligning with these considerations, the framework aims to facilitate the orderly, sustainable, and inclusive growth of the public Wi-Fi ecosystem under the PM-WANI initiative.

TRAI releases Tariff Order for retail broadband connectivity for Public Data Offices

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has observed that a large number of spam complaints are made by the customers against the business entities from whom the consumers have earlier purchased goods or services. On investigation, such business entities often claim that they possess the consent of the consumer for receiving commercial calls and messages.

Under the regulatory framework defined by the Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulations (TCCCPR), 2018, an entity can make commercial communications to a consumer irrespective of his/her Do Not Disturb (DND) preferences provided the entity has taken explicit consent from the consumer. However, in many cases, these consents were collected through offline or unverifiable means, making it extremely difficult to ascertain their validity and genuineness. In several instances, consumers report that their mobile numbers have been acquired by the entities for this purpose through misrepresentation, deception, or unauthorized data-sharing practices.

TRAI has undertaken several innovative regulatory measures in recent years to curb such practices. These include allowing consumers to register complaints against unregistered telemarketers (UTMs) even without prior DND registration, and initiating large-scale disconnection of telecom resources being misused by the entities for spamming activities. However, verification of consent for commercial communication citing offline consent of consumer, remains a formidable challenge.

To address the issue, the regulations provide for acquiring consent digitally by the entities and registering them in a secure and interoperable digital consent registry maintained by the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) for easy verification of consents while commercial communication is made to the consumers. However, for successful operation of this consent registration framework, onboarding of entities sending commercial communications is a necessary requirement.

Accordingly, to begin the national roll-out, TRAI has launched a Pilot Project in coordination with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) involving select banks and has issued a Direction on June 13, 2025, to all the Telecom Service Providers, mandating them to pilot this framework in collaboration with banks. Given the sensitivity of banking transactions and cases of financial frauds through spam calls, the banking sector has been prioritized for the first phase of implementation. 

This Pilot, running under a Regulatory Sandbox framework, will validate the operational, technical, and regulatory aspects of the enhanced Consent Registration Function (CRF) and lay the foundation for sector-wise scaling of the digital consent ecosystem.


TRAI launches pilot project for Digital Consent Management in partnership with RBI and Banks

Prasar Bharati will call for bids within a year to rollout large scale testing of Direct to Mobile (D2M) technology in the country to establish a viable business model. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) had referred the Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) broadcasting proposal to a committee of secretaries.

Direct-to-Mobile is a broadcasting technology that enables users to receive multimedia content on their phones without an internet connection, similar to FM radio, where signals are transmitted and received by a device’s receiver. The government plans to roll-out D2M nationwide especially in tier II and III cities.

Prasar Bharati, in partnership with IIT Kanpur and Saankhya Labs (Tejas Networks), is currently testing D2M technology in over 19 cities in India. This technology could allow the government to broadcast content in areas lacking internet connectivity, focusing on educational programming and emergency broadcasts.

On the sidelines of FICCI Frames 2025, Gaurav Dwivedi, Chief Executive Officer, Prasar Bharati said, “The proof-of-concept testing has been completed successfully across 19 cities using both high-power and low-power transmitters. Now, we are looking at a slightly longer-term model to establish its business viability. Within a year, we will invite bids from technology companies for large-scale testing over a period of three to five years to establish viable business model.”

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/television/exclusive-mib-refers-d2m-broadcasting-proposal-to-committee-of-secretaries-46211.htm">Read More: EXCLUSIVE: MIB refers D2M broadcasting proposal to committee of secretaries</a>

Discussing the relevance of D2M, Dwivedi highlighted, “While there is a belief that streaming is replacing broadcast, we see the broadcast sector as still very vibrant. So the D2M idea essentially is that on the mobile devices, for people who want to consume content on the move, this provides them an option whether they would want to consume content through data download or whether they want to consume it in a broadcasting mode. So as far as the technology is concerned, as I mentioned, the proof of concept testing has been completed satisfactorily." 

Dwivedi said, "As we move forward in the next few months towards rolling it out across these 19 cities with formalized private sector participation, then the picture should become clearer. (3:56) And based on that result, I think the players in the market can then devise their own strategies and then we should see how the sector evolves over the next few years." 

With multiple ministries involved such as Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Department of Space (DoS), and MIB, Dwivedi said, “This technology impacts multiple ministries—not just Information & Broadcasting. A decision can only be made after considering all stakeholder concerns. These discussions are progressing satisfactorily.”

Experts suggest that the entire spectrum from 472 MHz till 582 MHz should be reserved for D2M technology. Currently, a part of this spectrum is being reserved for mobility use.

Telecommunications companies have voiced opposition to the D2M initiative, citing potential business losses in video consumption, one of India’s fastest-growing market. However, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has supported D2M technology as a means to expand digital terrestrial broadcasting, allowing it to coexist alongside cable and satellite.

The MIB has strongly advocated for D2M, highlighting that, of the 280 million households in India, only 190 million have a television, leaving the rest “TV Dark.” In contrast, there are approximately 800 million smartphone users and 250 million feature phone users in the country.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/television/prasar-bharatis-waves-vs-d2m-committee-of-secretaries-meet-to-discuss-d2m-tech-54471.htm">Read more: Prasar Bharati's WAVES vs D2M: Committee of Secretaries meet to discuss D2M tech</a>

Regarding telecom operators’ concerns about potential data usage impacts, Dwivedi emphasized, “Ultimately, the decision must be taken in the best interest of consumers. They should have the option to choose whether they want to stream content via data or access it through broadcasting.”

When asked about the concerns regarding D2M affecting Waves OTT’s growth in the long run, Dwivedi stated, “The public broadcaster must be present across all platforms—radio, television, set-top boxes, D2M, and streaming. It is up to the consumer to decide which mode they prefer.”

Growth of WAVES OTT

Further, Dwivedi spoke about the concept of keeping WAVES OTT as an ad supported platform, “The basic idea behind keeping an ad-supported platform is that as a public service broadcaster, Prasar Bharati has an obligation to reach the largest number of audiences across the country. Having an entry barrier, such as high subscription fees, runs contrary to that spirit.”

On the growth of advertisers, he added, “We are seeing a good trend in daily viewership. Since we present a diverse range of content—audio, video, archives, new content, gaming, and more—we are witnessing engagement across different categories. This has, in turn, attracted significant advertising spends, including from major brands like Amul.” Looking ahead, Dwivedi is optimistic about the platform’s future trajectory, “In the coming months, we expect stronger growth. Our objective is to reach every last member of the audience, and we are working towards that.”

EXCLUSIVE: Prasar Bharati gears up for massive D2M trials, bidding to begin in a year

Telecommunications, retail and E-commerce and financial services are the top three sectors receiving the most consumer complaints. According to a report by ServiceNow Customer Experience Report 2025, at least 90% of Indians have spent time trying to resolve issues or complaints with organizations in these sectors.

On average, individuals spent over 4 hours resolving issues in each sector: 4.3 hours in Telecom, 4.1 hours in Retail, and 4.2 hours in Financial Services.

Indian customers are quick to take action when faced with slow or poor service, with 89% willing to switch to a competitor and 84% leaving negative reviews online or on social media.

When it comes to trust in customer service formats, 25% of Indians reported decreased trust in physical letters or paper formats.

A third of Indians stated that their issues were resolved within 2-3 days on average. Over 2 in 5 Indians believe that quick issue resolution and company transparency are significant aspects of good customer service.

Additionally, 37% of surveyed individuals consider getting through to someone quickly and tracking progress as crucial factors of good customer service.

However, 39% of Indians find waiting on hold or being in a queue the most frustrating issue when interacting with customer service staff. Moreover, transferring issues to multiple departments is another frustrating aspect of poor customer service.

With the advancement of AI chatbots in India, 85% of individuals use them to check the status of their issues, including refunds. Customers also use AI chatbots to seek product recommendations on e-commerce platforms (84%) and for food and dining recommendations (over 80%).

Indians believe that the most important things a customer service chatbot can do are resolve issues efficiently (50%) and have a fast response time (49%).

However, 40% of Indians think that trusting generative AI in customer service would improve if they were asked for approval of data collection, clearly labeled when used, and allowed to adjust its personality and features.

Notably, 77% of Indians have expressed concerns about privacy when interacting with AI in customer service over the past 12 months.

Around a third of Indians believe that increased government regulation (36%) and independent organization/ombudsmen (32%) reviewing issues would make them trust generative AI in customer service more.

The study surveyed 5,000 Indians.

Customer service crisis: 90% of Indians spend over 4 hours resolving issues in Telecom, e-comm, finance sectors

The All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF) has urged Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to expedite release of the draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023. The ministry had submitted its Action Taken Report to the Parliamentary Standing Committee, stating that the process would take some time and that the committee would be kept updated on its progress.

On March 11, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) emphasized the urgent need to create a level playing field for all broadcasting services and address challenges related to satellite-based technologies, which continue to be governed by outdated legislation.

The report stated, "In light of these concerns, the committee believes that the cable TV industry requires regulation through a comprehensive act. Therefore, we recommend that the Ministry ensure the timely enactment of the proposed Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023, as it will significantly address industry concerns."

The Ministry further stated, "Regarding the timeline for presenting the draft bill before Parliament, the Ministry will prepare a draft Cabinet Note after completing consultations with stakeholders. This note will then be circulated for inter-ministerial consultation. After that, the draft bill will be submitted for the Cabinet's approval. This process is expected to take some time, and the committee will be kept informed of its progress."

The release of MIB’s Action Taken Report provides important insights into the government’s stance on key issues affecting the cable TV sector. AIDCF acknowledges the Ministry’s efforts to address some of the industry's concerns, particularly through the acceptance of certain recommendations.

AIDCF noted that the Parliamentary Committee has recognized these concerns and reiterated that MIB, as the nodal ministry for cable television regulation in India, must actively seek updates on these matters and provide a more comprehensive response at the earliest opportunity.

An AIDCF spokesperson said, "We also request the Honorable Ministry to bring the draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023, at the earliest possible time. The contributions of TRAI and MIB in bringing relief to the industry are commendable and undeniable."

However, cable operators are also raising serious concerns that the government must address to support the growth of the cable TV industry.

A senior cable industry veteran stated, "Consumer choice is being undermined due to deep discounting—up to 45%—on à la carte versus bundled channel pricing. This issue needs to be resolved. For a three-hour movie, TV consumers end up watching for nearly five hours due to excessive advertisements, despite paying ₹19 for that channel. There is an urgent need for better content on TV, and advertising time also needs to be reviewed."

Additionally, serious reforms are required to address the decline in cable TV subscribers, which is also leading to significant job losses, he added.

AIDCF also applauded MIB for implementing progressive measures such as extending the MSO renewal period to 10 years, creating a National Register for LCOs, introducing online registration for LCOs, ensuring channels are strictly classified as either Pay or Free-to-Air (FTA), preventing Pay channels from being aired as FTA on DD Free Dish, and recommending policy guidelines for FAST channels.

An AIDCF spokesperson stated, "Despite these positive developments, several key challenges continue to strain the cable TV industry and require urgent attention, such as escalating channel prices, forced bundling, reduced consumer choice, regulatory imbalances with OTT platforms, linear TV channels on streaming platforms, and the misuse of regulatory loopholes by FAST channels."

While MIB and TRAI play a crucial role in shaping a regulatory environment that supports the long-term sustainability of the cable TV industry, swift reforms are necessary to curb the sector's decline, the spokesperson added.

The Cable TV industry in India is currently regulated by multiple laws, rules, and guidelines under various authorities such as the MIB, TRAI, and DoT. Recognizing the complexity of the existing system, the MIB has taken steps to streamline regulations. It has also acknowledged the urgent need to create a level playing field for all broadcasting services, including satellite-based technologies.

In 2021, the MIB issued guidelines allowing Multi-System Operators (MSOs) to share infrastructure, such as headends and networks, under specific conditions. This move is expected to reduce costs and promote small-scale operators by eliminating the need for heavy investments.

Another major reform is the shift from offline to online registration for Local Cable Operators (LCOs). Currently, LCOs register at local Head Post Offices, making the process cumbersome and inefficient. The MIB is in the advanced stages of launching an online registration system, which will be integrated into the Broadcast Seva Portal. This will simplify registration, improve compliance, and provide PAN-India validity for operators.

To improve oversight and transparency, the MIB is developing a Cable TV Monitoring Cell (CTMC), which will ensure that MSOs regularly report subscriber data. This initiative is designed to address issues like underreporting and tax evasion, which have been longstanding concerns in the industry.

Another major reform is the shift from offline to online registration for Local Cable Operators (LCOs). Currently, LCOs register at local Head Post Offices, making the process cumbersome and inefficient. The MIB is in the advanced stages of launching an online registration system, which will be integrated into the Broadcast Seva Portal. This will simplify registration, improve compliance, and provide PAN-India validity for operators.

The government responded to recommendations suggesting measures such as decriminalization of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 under the Jan Vishwas Act, 2023, to increase investor confidence. Regulatory simplifications, such as longer license renewal periods for MSOs (extended to 10 years). Encouraging regional content through a new regulatory framework for Platform Services (PS) channels.
