TRAI may regulate HD channels' subscription charges

Telecom and broadcast regulator TRAI is planning to review the freedom given to direct-to-home service providers in deciding subscription charges for high definition 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 Regulatory Authority of India 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 source said.

TRAI last year had issued direction 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.