TRAI Releases Paper on Regulation of FAST and ALTD Services

On 6th April 2026, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), released consultation paper regarding Formulation of a Regulatory Framework for Application-based Linear Television Distribution Services (ALTD) which include Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television Services (FAST).

The consultation paper was issued pursuant to a reference received from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on 15th December 2025, seeking recommendations under Section 11(1)(a) of the TRAI Act, 1997 to develop a proper regulatory framework for FAST services, ensure content accountability, and ensure parity along with consumer protection.

The consultation paper is based on stakeholders inputs and existing industry practices, and covers all platforms that provide linear television channels through applications, including mobile and smart TV apps, web-based platforms, and applications pre-installed on television sets and other devices.

In the consultation paper, TRAI has defined ALTD services as application-based platforms that distribute linear television channels through pre-installed applications, downloadable apps, or web-based interfaces. These services are typically advertisement-supported and may also offer on-demand content alongside scheduled programming, thereby combining elements of traditional broadcasting and digital streaming. Importantly, TRAI distinguishes between ‘FAST TV’ (platforms streaming only free, ad-supported linear TV channels) and ‘FAST Channels’ (individual free, ad-supported linear TV channels offered within larger OTT platforms).

Further, the paper recognises that ALTD/ FAST services have emerged as a distinct and rapidly growing segment in the broadcasting ecosystem, driven by increasing internet subscribers, affordable data, and the rising adoption of connected television devices. Even though these services are similar to traditional distribution platforms such as DTH, cable television, HITS and IPTV, they currently operate without a structured licensing or regulatory framework, which raises concerns.

Key participants involved in ALTD services have been identified based on stakeholders inputs and industry discussions, including TV manufacturers, operating system providers, application providers and content/solution partners. Along with this, OTT platforms, websites, mobile applications also sometimes offer linear television channels alongside on-demand contents. Thus, TRAI noted that the ALTD services involves multiple stakeholders across different layers, which makes identification of a primary responsible entity an important regulatory issue.

TRAI has further highlighted concerns raised by industry stakeholders, particularly MSO associations, regarding FAST services being offered in violation of the Policy Guidelines for Uplinking and Downlinking of Television Channels in India, 2022, issued by MIB. Stakeholders emphasized that no television channel is permitted for public viewing in India without registration or permission from the Ministry under the Downlinking Guidelines, 2011 (as amended in November 2022). Concerns were also raised regarding non-adherence to the Programme Code and Advertising Code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and lack of content archiving and monitoring systems. This has led to concerns regarding an uneven competitive environment for pay television operators such as MSOs, DTH providers, and IPTV services.

Determination of the appropriate entity to be regulated within this multi-layered ecosystem is a key issue observed by TRAI. Therefore, with respect to this, stakeholders views have been called for to decide whether application providers, who deliver content to end-users, should be designated as the primary entity responsible for obtaining authorisation. The outcome of this determination is likely to have significant implications for allocation of liability, compliance requirements and operational structuring.

In addition, concerns regarding consumer protection and grievance redressal mechanism in relation to ALTD Services have also been examined. The absence of standardised mechanisms in these areas, coupled with the lack of content archiving and monitoring obligations in certain business models, raises questions regarding enforceability and oversight. Further, the practice of making linear television channels, including potentially pay channels, available free of cost on such platforms may require closer scrutiny under the existing tariff and broadcasting framework.

The consultation paper indicates that a suitable policy and authorisation framework may be considered for entities involved in the provision of ALTD services, particularly application providers distributing linear television channels. The proposed framework would bring ALTD service providers under the ‘Television Channel Distribution Services’ category, similar to DTH, HITS, and IPTV services. Key terms and conditions under consideration include: eligibility criteria, minimum net worth requirements, processing and entry fees, bank guarantees, authorisation fees, security deposits, and roll-out obligations. Additionally, the framework contemplates cross-holding restrictions between TV broadcasters and application providers, mandatory sharing of sports broadcasting signals with Prasar Bharati, and compulsory transmission of certain channels.

Accordingly, written comments on the consultation paper have been invited by May 4, 2026 and counter-comments by May 18, 2026.