Section 90 in Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services (Eighth) (Addressable Systems) Tariff Order, 2017
90. In this regard it is mentioned that the DTH operator while making the argument that the input cost is higher to them compared to MSOs, had ignored the fact that MSO also incurs cost of developing ground infrastructure and engaging with LCOs and handles manpower on the ground infrastructure. Moreover, every technology is having its own advantages and disadvantages. It is pertinent to mention that while DTH operators use expensive transponder space then they also get the advantage of coverage and acquire subscriber base in any part of country whereas MSOs require to deploy and maintain the ground infrastructure that caters subscribers across the length and breadth of its service area involve huge efforts. At the end of the day both systems are addressable systems and they serve the same purpose. Further, it is observed that no DTH operator furnished cost figures in support of their argument at the stage of consultation on draft TTO despite specifically appealed in it. The Authority has given enough flexibility to distributors of television channels to innovate while protecting the interest of the customers. As such the prescribed ceilings have taken into consideration the cost of both the systems and leave enough margins to compete.
