(a) whether the Government has decided to introduce Direct-to-Home TV
services to keep away Cable Operators and CAS as reported in the
Hindustan Times dated January 22, 2004;
(b) if so, the facts and details thereof;
(c) whether Tata-Star DTH venture has been announced;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the time by which the DTH is likely to be introduced and monopoly of
Cable Operators to be eliminated?
THE MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING (SHRI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD)
(a), (b) & (e): Direct-to-Home (DTH) Broadcasting Service, refers to
distribution of multi channel TV programmes in Ku band by using a
satellite system, by providing TV signals direct to subscriber`s premises,
without passing through an intermediatory such as cable operator. The
Government had, in the year 2001, announced guidelines, for obtaining
license for providing Direct-to-Home (DTH) Broadcasting Services in
India. So far, four applications have been received for starting DTH
Broadcasting Service in the country. Of these, M/s ASC Enterprises
Limited has been granted license for the same, who have launched their
services w.e.f. 2nd October, 2003.
(c) & (d): No intimation has been received in this regard.