The government revealed the TV Ratings Policy 2026 on Friday to enhance transparency and accountability in television audience measurement. This new policy, replacing the 2014 guidelines, aims to ensure fair practices and accurate data measurement in the broadcasting sector. It also lowers the entry barrier for new players by reducing the net worth requirement from Rs 20 crore to Rs 5 crore.
The revised norms focus on promoting competition by making it easier for companies to operate as TV rating agencies. To maintain impartiality, the policy mandates that at least half of the Board of Directors of rating agencies must be independent, without any affiliations to broadcasters or advertisers. Agencies are prohibited from taking consultancy assignments that could compromise their neutrality.
In a move to enhance data accuracy, agencies are required to increase their sample size to 80,000 metered homes within 18 months, with a future target of 1,20,000 homes. The measurement system is now technology-neutral, covering viewership across various platforms like cable, DTH, OTT, and connected TVs. Furthermore, agencies must publish their methodologies and anonymised data on their websites to ensure transparency.
The policy also emphasizes data privacy, requiring agencies to comply with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 to safeguard viewers’ personal information. To ensure accountability, a dual-audit mechanism has been introduced, including quarterly internal audits and annual external audits. Additionally, an Audit and Oversight Team will conduct periodic field inspections to enhance oversight.
