Government Unveils TV Ratings Policy 2026 to Boost Transparency and Competition
The government on Friday introduced the TV Ratings Policy 2026, marking a significant overhaul of television audience measurement norms in India. The new framework replaces the 2014 guidelines and is designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and competition in the broadcasting ecosystem.
A key reform under the policy is the reduction in entry barriers for rating agencies. The minimum net worth requirement has been lowered sharply from Rs 20 crore to Rs 5 crore, opening the sector to more participants and encouraging competitive practices.
To ensure independence and neutrality, the policy mandates that at least 50 percent of the board members of rating agencies must be independent directors with no ties to broadcasters, advertisers, or ad agencies. Additionally, agencies are prohibited from undertaking consultancy assignments that could lead to conflicts of interest.
The policy also focuses on improving data accuracy and representation. Rating agencies must expand their sample size to 80,000 metered homes within 18 months, while existing players are required to meet this target within six months. The sample size will eventually be scaled up to 1,20,000 homes.
In a notable shift, the measurement framework has been made technology-neutral, enabling tracking of viewership across cable, DTH, OTT platforms, and connected TVs. It also captures consumption across multiple screens within households, aligning with evolving viewing habits.
On transparency and data privacy, agencies are now required to publicly disclose their methodologies and share anonymised data on their websites. They must also comply with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 to safeguard user information.
To strengthen oversight, the policy introduces a dual-audit system, comprising quarterly internal audits and annual external audits. The Ministry will also establish an Audit and Oversight Team to conduct periodic field inspections, ensuring adherence to the new norms.
The TV Ratings Policy 2026 is expected to bring greater credibility to audience measurement while fostering a more competitive and transparent media landscape.
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