TRAI recommends authorisation framework for internet-based linear TV apps

TRAI has recommended a separate authorisation category for applications that aggregate and distribute scheduled linear television channels over the internet, including free ad-supported streaming television services. Its recommendations were released on October 26 following a consultation opened in April and an open-house discussion in June.

The proposed Application-based Linear Television Distribution framework covers services delivered through connected televisions, mobile apps and websites for users in India. The stated scope excludes broadcaster-owned platforms carrying only their own or related-company channels, and live streams on social-media intermediaries. This is not presented as a blanket framework for every on-demand video platform.

TRAI proposes making the application provider responsible for obtaining authorisation and handling consumer complaints. It recommends a national service area, an initial 20-year validity renewable in ten-year periods, a ₹10,000 application-processing fee and a one-time ₹1 lakh entry fee, with no authorisation fee, bank guarantee or security deposit. These are recommended terms, not fees established as currently payable by this release.

The proposals also envisage a government master repository of authorised apps, responsibilities for device and operating-system providers, and inclusion of ALTD viewing in television-audience measurement. Recommendations and eventual government rules are different stages: the release does not announce that the framework has been notified or that applications are already open.

Source: Ministry of Communications / TRAI / Press Information Bureau, October 26, 2026. Original English and Telugu reporting by KROV from the official release; linked recommendation documents were not used as evidence.