New Delhi: In a major reform aimed at simplifying business processes for Local Cable Operators (LCOs), the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has amended the Cable Television Network Rules, 1994. Effective immediately, LCO registration and renewal will now be conducted entirely online via the Broadcast Seva Portal, with the Ministry itself acting as the registering authority.
The revamped system eliminates the cumbersome offline process managed by local head post offices and promises real-time issuance of registration certificates upon successful verification of applicant details like Aadhaar, PAN, and CIN.
Five-Year Validity, Nationwide Coverage
Under the new rules, LCO registrations will be valid for a period of five years and will apply nationwide, replacing the earlier system that restricted operators to specific local areas. Applications for registration or renewal must be submitted at least 90 days before the certificate’s expiry, officials said.
The Ministry has also introduced an appeal mechanism. LCOs denied registration or renewal can file an appeal with the designated Appellate Authority, the Under Secretary (DAS), within 30 days of the decision, officials added.
Key Highlights of the Amended Rules:
• Registrations and renewals must be done online through the Broadcast Seva Portal.
• Registration validity extended to five years, applicable across India.
• A uniform processing fee of ₹5,000 will be charged.
• Appeals against registration denial can be submitted online.
• Pending applications with post offices must be withdrawn and resubmitted on the portal.
Smooth Transition from Offline to Online
Previously, LCO registrations were overseen by head post offices, with the Head Postmaster serving as the registering authority. The offline process was often slow and limited LCO operations geographically. The online system not only ensures faster processing but also allows LCOs to operate nationwide without restrictions.
Existing registrations will remain valid until the expiry date mentioned on their certificates. Operators whose registrations are set to expire in less than 90 days have been advised to immediately apply for renewal online.
Ease of Doing Business
The Ministry described the move as a step towards enhancing the ease of doing business in India. "This reform eliminates delays and introduces a seamless, transparent process for LCOs. Registration and renewal certificates will now be generated in realtime," it said in a statement.
