Regulation 79 (Reg 79) was introduced by the Indian Government in 2015, with the aim of regulating the transmission and carriage of television channels across the country. The development of cable and satellite networks in India has played a significant role in shaping the nation’s media landscape. With over 70,000 registered cable operators and around 7,500 registered multi-system operators (MSOs), the Indian market for digital television distribution is thriving.
Reg 79 has been integral in promoting cultural diversity in India’s digital media space. The regulation includes several provisions aimed at ensuring that broadcasting services reflect India’s cultural diversity and linguistic plurality. Among the key aspects of Reg 79 is the mandatory availability of basic service tiers (BSTs) with a minimum of 100 channels, of which 25% must be mandatory DD channels, primarily regional channels broadcasting news, art & culture, and other regional programming. There is also a requirement to carry local channels in the same region as the cable operator.
These provisions have significantly contributed to promoting cultural diversity in the Indian media space. They empower local content creators by facilitating their access to a larger audience. Furthermore, the regulation has played a vital role in preserving Indian culture, heritage, and language.
The impact of Reg 79 can be seen in the success of regional channels and the growth of Indian content creators who have made significant strides in the global market. Regional channels have been burgeoning, with over 600 regional channels available on air across India. The success of these channels is a testament to the appetite for local content and the support of regulatory structures that aim to promote diversity.
However, it is not just television channels that are benefiting from Reg 79. The regulations also apply to direct-to-home (DTH) operators and internet service providers (ISPs), which have a considerable presence in the Indian market. DTH providers like Tata Sky and DishTV, for instance, offer a wide range of regional channels in their BSTs.
On the other hand, ISPs have allowed consumers to access streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hotstar, which have increased their offerings of Indian content, both in Hindi and regional languages. The success of these streaming services has also led to an increase in original programming in regional languages.
In conclusion, Reg 79 has played a significant role in promoting cultural diversity in India’s digital media space, allowing for the expression of India’s rich cultural heritage and promoting regional languages. As cable and satellite networks continue to evolve, it is essential to maintain regulatory structures that promote diversity and empower local content creators. The success of Reg 79 in the Indian media space is a testament to the importance of such regulations and their impact in fostering cultural diversity.
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