Bangalore: Television viewing in the country is set to undergo a drastic change with the launch of direct-to-home (DTH) services by a few more operators. This may yet be the cable operators' biggest challenge.

Tata Sky Ltd., a joint venture of the Tatas, Star and the Kalanidhi Maran-promoted Sun Direct TV Private Ltd., is expected to launch a DTH service in the next few months.

The company has signed an agreement with Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to lease the 12 ku-band transponders on the advanced and high-powered satellite INSAT 4A to provide DTH services, said Vikram Kaushik, chief executive officer, Tata Sky Ltd.

The transponders leased on INSAT 4A Satellite will enable Tata Sky to transmit around 150 channels in digital quality. Tata Sky officials said they are planning a national roll out of the DTH service in the first half of 2006, offering subscribers a wide array of programming choices with interactive features as well as superior picture and sound quality.

`Pay television' concept

The DTH service will herald the concept of "pay television" in India on the digital television platform, giving viewers an alternative to TV channels relayed by cable operators in the country.

TV channels (broadcasters) are eagerly awaiting the launch of DTH services to break the monopoly enjoyed by the multi-service operators in the country.

For instance, a tussle between the cable operators and Walt Disney (India) Private Ltd. over payments has stymied Walt Disney's bid to beam its channels in Tamil Nadu. "With the advent of DTH and set-top boxes, the scenario will change," said Rajat Jain, managing director, Walt Disney (India).

Officials said that Tata Sky will provide flexibility to viewers to watch channels of their choice at affordable prices. They said the company is keen on ensuring that the middle class will be able to afford the service and said it is not a premium service.

Currently, ZEE-backed ASC Enterprises and State-owned Doordarshan have launched DTH service. Two more applications for providing DTH service from Essel Shyam Communications Ltd. and Noida Software Technology Park Ltd. are pending with the Union Government.

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail