Question : CABLE TARIFF

(a) the basic amount fixed/stipulated by Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) according to which cable operators could charge 7 percent increase with effect from January 1, 2005 from the consumers;

(b) whether certain cable operators are charging higher than the said stipulated amount from the consumer;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether there is any disparity in charges of cable operators in various areas of Delhi;

(e) if so, the reasons therefor; and

(f) the action proposed to be taken by the Government against the erring cable operators and make the charging identical from all the consumers?

THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (SHRI P. R. DASMUNSI)

(a): No basic amount is fixed/stipulated by Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). TRAI has permitted 7% increase in cable charges with effect from 01.01.2005. The 7% increase will apply to the charges, excluding taxes, prevailing as on 26.12.2003. These tariff orders are available on TRAI`s’website (www.trai.gov.in).

(b) & (c): Complaints against cable operators for charging higher than the permissible rates are dealt with in accordance with the provisions of Tariff Order dated 1.10.2004 and as per the provisions of TRAI Act 1997.

(d), (e) & (f): The TRAI in its recommendations dated 1.10.2004 on the issues relating to broadcasting and distribution of TV channels has not proposed for regulation of uniformity of cable rates keeping in view of the fact that rates tend to vary from one area to another depending on various factors. However, TRAI is of the view that uniform rates shall start emerging after the introduction of addressability and non-discriminating interconnecting agreements and the best price regulation is done through competition. Government has, so far, issued one license and two Letters of Intent to Direct to Home service providers so as to bring in effective competition.