Live TV channels streamed through apps are finally getting a clear rulebook in India, if the government accepts TRAI’s latest advice.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has released its recommendations on an “Authorisation Framework for Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) Services”. This covers internet-based platforms that bundle and stream regular linear TV channels, including Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television, or FAST, services.
What TRAI is proposing
TRAI wants ALTD services introduced as a new category under Section 3(1)(a) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. In simple terms, an ALTD service aggregates government-approved linear channels, including “internet-native” channels, and distributes them over the public internet through apps, websites and similar interfaces on any internet-enabled device.
The framework is deliberately light-touch. TRAI recommends a national service area, an initial authorisation valid for 20 years and renewable for 10 years at a time, an application processing fee of ₹10,000 and a one-time entry fee of ₹1 lakh. There would be no authorisation fee, bank guarantee or security deposit.
Who is covered, and who isn’t
The app provider would be the main entity responsible for getting the authorisation and following the rules. The framework excludes broadcaster-owned platforms that only distribute their own channels or those of group companies, and it excludes live streams on social media platforms.
TRAI also recommends that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting maintain a “Master ALTD app repository”, and that device makers, including TV manufacturers, and operating system providers support it. Authorisation, channel registration and reporting would run through an online portal.
How it got here
TRAI issued a consultation paper on 6 April 2026, received 207 comments and 11 counter-comments, and held an open house discussion on 10 June. It says the final recommendations aim to promote innovation, ease of doing business, consumer protection and regulatory certainty. These are recommendations for now, and the government will decide whether to adopt them.
Why it matters
Streaming is steadily replacing cable and DTH for many Indian households, and FAST channels are a growing part of that. A low-cost, clear licensing route could encourage more startups, regional broadcasters and smart TV platforms to launch internet TV services, while giving viewers some consumer protection. For digital marketers, more FAST platforms also mean new ad inventory to watch.
Sources: Press Information Bureau (TRAI), The Economic Times. Written by the xRapid Media LLP team.