Broadcasters will issue invoices to DPOs as per new regime, says IBF

From February, member broadcasters will issue invoices to distribution platform operators (DPOs) in accordance with provisions stipulated by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) under the new MRP regime, the Indian Broadcasting Foundation (IBF) has said.

The foundation also said its member broadcasters executed the reference interconnect agreements (RIOs) with DPOs under the new MRP system and implemented the new regime with effect from February 1.

“In view of the latest TRAI statement, there may be some confusion among DPOs regarding the implementation of the new MRP regime. Some of our member broadcasters have been receiving calls from some DPOs seeking clarification regarding submission of monthly subscriber reports (MSRs) and billing for the month of February,” IBF said in a statement.

The foundation said all DPOs are statutorily bound to adhere to provisions of the new regime. “Accordingly, DPOs are hereby requested to provide their MSRs as mandated under the new MRP regime in respect of each of their subscribers on the duly notified dates. viz., 7, 14, 21 and 28 of every month,” the statement said.

TRAI had sent a letter to IBF on February 4, stating that all provisions of the new regime must be enforced from February 1 and directed it to inform its member broadcasters to ensure compliance from February 1.

In its statement, TRAI had also acknowledged that 65% of cable services and 35% DTH subscribers has already migrated to the new regime. However, since a switch-off will cause inconvenience, TRAI has given time till March 31 to subscribers who have not yet migrated to exercise their choice.

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