Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Digital Addressable Systems Audit Manual, 2026, aimed at strengthening the audit framework for broadcasting and cable services in the country.
The new manual has been introduced following extensive consultations with stakeholders, who had emphasized the need to improve audit-related provisions under the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulations, 2017. Stakeholders also highlighted concerns regarding repetitive audits of Distribution Platform Operators (DPOs), which often led to resource wastage, operational disruptions, and reduced confidence in the audit process.
To enhance transparency and accountability, TRAI has incorporated provisions for technical proficiency requirements, categorization of auditors based on experience, and stronger accountability measures. These provisions were earlier included in the Expression of Interest issued by TRAI on 26 August 2025 for empanelment of auditors.
TRAI had earlier released a consultation paper on 9 August 2024 seeking comments on audit-related provisions of the Interconnection Regulations and the audit manual. In response, 64 comments and 3 counter-comments were received from stakeholders, followed by an Open House Discussion on 5 December 2024 to further deliberate on the matter.
Subsequently, the authority notified the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) (Seventh Amendment) Regulations, 2026 on 5 February 2026.
After reviewing stakeholder feedback and conducting its own analysis, TRAI finalized the Digital Addressable Systems Audit Manual, 2026, which will come into effect from 1 April 2026. The manual will serve as a guidance document outlining detailed procedures for the audit process while remaining consistent with existing regulatory provisions.
The Audit Manual is available on the official website of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India. For further information, stakeholders may contact Dr. Deepali Sharma, Advisor, TRAI.
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