The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has today issued a notification amending the Cable Television Network Rules, 1994, to simplify and modernise the Local Cable Operator (LCO) registration process. The significant change, effective immediately, shifts the entire LCO registration procedure to an online platform, with the Ministry itself assuming the role of the registering authority, a release issued by PIB stated.
From what is understood, the revised process enables LCOs to apply for new registrations or renewals directly through the Broadcast Seva Portal, with certificates being issued in real-time upon successful verification of key applicant details such as Aadhaar, PAN, CIN, and DIN. The Ministry emphasised that this move aims to eliminate the previous cumbersome and time-consuming offline process, which was conducted at local head post offices with the Head Postmaster acting as the registering authority. As part of the amendments, the registration or renewal for an LCO will be valid for a period of five years, with a processing fee of Rs 5000. Additionally, LCO registrations will now be valid for operations across the entire territory of India, rather than being limited to specific areas. The Ministry has also introduced an appeal mechanism, allowing LCOs to challenge the denial of registration or renewal by the designated Section Officer before the Appellate Authority, Under Secretary (DAS), within 30 days of such denial.
To ensure a smooth transition, the Ministry has clarified that LCOs whose existing registrations are due for renewal must apply at least 90 days before the expiration of their current registration. Furthermore, any applications for grants or renewal of registration that are currently pending at post offices must now be withdrawn and submitted through the Broadcast Seva Portal. In line with the government’s commitment to ease of doing business, the updated system allows for the immediate issuance of registration and renewal certificates upon verification, thereby reducing the administrative burden on both the operators and the ministry.