Publication of Notification of Sansad TV Rajya Sabha in exercise of the powers conferred by sub section 1 of section 8 of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation ) Act, 1995, ( 7 of 1995)

## Policy Analysis Report: Amendment to Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995 **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification amending the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995. The amendment, issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, adds "Sansad TV Rajya Sabha News and Current Affairs" to the list of channels under the Act's purview. This change likely aims to bring the specified channel under the regulatory framework established by the Act, influencing its broadcasting operations and content. **2. Introduction:** The purpose of this report is to provide an informative analysis of a recent amendment to the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995, based solely on the text of the notification provided. The analysis focuses on the key changes introduced by the amendment, their likely rationale, and potential impact. **3. Policy Overview:** * This notification amends the existing notification of the Government of India in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, number S.O. 2693E, dated the 5th September, 2013, which was a notification under the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995. * **Core Objective (Inferred):** The core objective, based on the provided text, is to expand the scope of channels regulated under the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995, to include "Sansad TV Rajya Sabha News and Current Affairs." **4. Background and Rationale:** * **Rationale for the Amendment:** The likely reason for this specific amendment is to bring "Sansad TV Rajya Sabha News and Current Affairs" under the regulatory oversight of the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995. The text does not explicitly state why this channel was added at this time, but it suggests a need to ensure the channel adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the Act. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** * **Specific Part of Original Policy Changed:** The amendment modifies "Table-I" of the original notification S.O. 2693E, dated 5th September 2013. * **New Rule/Provision:** The amendment inserts a new entry into Table-I after serial number 27, adding a new serial number "28" with the entry "Sansad TV Rajya Sabha News and Current Affairs ; No. 1512021BPL SANJIV SHANKAR, Jt. Secy.". * **Effect of Change:** The addition of "Sansad TV Rajya Sabha News and Current Affairs" to the list means that this channel is now subject to the rules and regulations outlined in the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995, and its associated notifications. This potentially affects the channel's programming, content, and operational practices, aligning them with the Act's requirements. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The most directly affected stakeholder is "Sansad TV Rajya Sabha News and Current Affairs." Other stakeholders include: * The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, responsible for enforcing the Act. * Cable television network operators, who are responsible for broadcasting the channel. * Viewers of "Sansad TV Rajya Sabha News and Current Affairs," who may experience changes in programming or content. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is the responsible agency, as indicated by the notification's origin. The Joint Secretary, Sanjiv Shankar, is mentioned, likely having a role in implementing the amendment. * **Timelines/Procedures:** The text does not specify any specific timelines or procedures for implementation beyond the date of the notification (22nd November, 2021). Further guidelines and directives would likely be issued separately by the Ministry. Implementation would also rely on existing procedures within the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995. * **Implementation Aspects Related to the Changes:** "Sansad TV Rajya Sabha News and Current Affairs" will need to align its operations with the requirements of the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcome of this amendment is to ensure that "Sansad TV Rajya Sabha News and Current Affairs" adheres to the content and operational standards prescribed by the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995. This may lead to: * Greater regulatory oversight of the channel's broadcasting practices. * Alignment of the channel's content with the Act's guidelines. * Increased accountability of the channel to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. **9. Conclusion:** The amendment to the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act, 1995, adding "Sansad TV Rajya Sabha News and Current Affairs" to the list of regulated channels, is a significant development. It extends the regulatory framework of the Act to this specific channel, potentially impacting its operations and content. This action underscores the government's continued effort to regulate the broadcasting sector and ensure adherence to established standards. Further monitoring of the channel's operations and any subsequent guidelines issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will be essential to fully understand the impact of this amendment.

Key Entities Referenced