Deadline for stakeholders' comments on the draft Telecommunication (Broadcast and Cable) Service DRM-based Digital Addressable Systems Audit Manual, 2026 has been extended.

The regulatory body operating under the Ministry of Finance and Telecommunications, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), has extended the deadline for stakeholders’ comments on the draft of the recently issued “Audit Manual for Digital Addressable Systems, 2026” by one month. This manual is intended to clarify the application of Digital Rights Management (DRM) technology in Digital Addressable Television (DETV) and cable networks, compliance standards, audit procedures, and data security protocols. Feedback received during the initial consultation phase from industry associations, cable operators, content providers, and consumer organizations highlighted varied views on technical complexity, cost impact, and consumer protection issues.

With the extension, TRAI aims to comprehensively understand these diverse perspectives and make the final manual more balanced and implementable. The regulator noted that the extended period will allow small and medium‑sized cable networks, which were unable to respond initially due to a lack of technical expertise, to present their views. Consumer rights groups will also have time to highlight how data privacy and user rights can be protected under the DRM system.

TRAI said the final manual will be published after public consultation and will be considered a significant step in regulating the new digital addressable service. After the extended timeline, comments received will be analyzed, potential amendments incorporated, and the regulatory body will work to establish clear guidelines for the industry and safety standards for consumers. This step will facilitate digital transformation in India’s telecom sector and ensure a transparent regulatory framework.