Cabinet in favour of regulatory framework on TV ratings

With an aim of streamlining the way TV channels are rated in the country, the Union Cabinet today approved a much-awaited proposal for bringing out a comprehensive regulatory framework with guidelines for the Television Rating Agencies. These guidelines will cover detailed procedures for registration of rating agencies, eligibility norms, terms and conditions of registration, cross-holdings, methodology for audience measurement, a complaint redressal mechanism, sale and use of ratings, audit, disclosure, reporting requirements and action on non-compliance of guidelines.

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As per the guidelines, the TRAI and I and B can conduct inspections of the rating company with a "resonable notice". The proposal is based on recommendations made by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and is aimed at streamlining the process of rating viewership of TV channels. Briefing mediapersons on the decision, Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari said there has been a "need" for such a framework to bring about transparency in the system. He said the decision has been taken after detailed consultations and assessment by an inter-ministerial group.