The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has introduced the Fifth Amendment to the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulations for 2023. This amendment includes significant changes, such as the introduction of Schedule X, outlining DRM system requirements for IPTV services, including subscriber management, conditional access, encryption, and STBs. TRAI aims to create a technology-neutral regulatory environment that promotes growth while protecting consumer interests. The process, initiated in 2017, involved consultations with stakeholders and feedback from the industry. It led to the formation of a committee to develop DRM specifications for Schedule III, further enhancing the regulations and facilitating industry growth.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- DRM (Digital Rights Management): DRM refers to technologies and measures used to protect the intellectual property rights of digital content, ensuring that it is not copied or distributed without proper authorization.
- IPTV (Internet Protocol Television): IPTV is a technology that delivers television content over the Internet, allowing users to stream video and TV services through Internet protocols.
- Technology-Neutral Regulatory Regime: This term indicates that regulations are not biased towards specific technologies, enabling various technological advancements to flourish without favoring one over another.
- Schedule III: Schedule III is a part of the Interconnection Regulations that lacked DRM specifications initially. It was enhanced to include DRM specifications based on feedback from stakeholders, especially related to IPTV-based DPOs.
- Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI): TRAI is a regulatory body established in 1997 under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act. Its mission is to foster telecom growth, regulate services, and set tariffs while safeguarding consumer interests. TRAI is headquartered in New Delhi and consists of a Chairperson, full-time members, and part-time members appointed by the Government of India for specific terms.
