Live TV on Mobile: DoT asks stakeholders to rework pitch

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

IIT-Kanpur and other stakeholders to come out with a revised proposal on broadcasting live TV on mobile phones without data connection as the current option shared with it lacks clarity. At a meeting earlier this week, officials from the ministry of information and broadcasting (MIB), IIT-Kanpur, associations of cable operators, telecom firms and broadcasters explored the feasibility of beaming TV channels and other content on mobile phones on the lines of DTH (direct-to-home) broadcasting and without using any data connection.

As per officials aware of the details, the proposal that was discussed didn't have clarity if only the public broadcaster like Doordarshan/Prasar Bharti be given the exclusive mandate or private broadcasters can also utilise the service. Further, telcos have categorically told DoT that if such a proposal is being considered, spectrum should be auctioned as the services would be commercial.

Airwaves in the 600 MHz band-from 526-582 MHz-are being considered for offering such services. Last year, the DoT had offered the 600 MHz band for auction, but the airwaves remained unsold.