After the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) issued a directive changing the pricing parameters, cable operators, DTH providers and broadcasters were in a dilemma as they were all asked to publish the network subscription charges, channel pricing and the channel packs pricing as well. However, besides DTH providers and cable operators, the channel broadcasters were also allowed to curate their own channels and come up with new packs during this time. As such, many broadcasters like Zee Entertainment and Star India have come up with their own channel packs and bouquets. In a related development, another broadcaster, Times Network has announced its channel and channel packs pricing. The packs laid down by Times Network contain the English News channels along with Bollywood and Hollywood and entertainment channels.
Times Network Channel Packs Starting at Rs 5
Currently, Times Network has listed three packs in its portfolio out of which one is a news-based pack, another being an HD pack and a value pack as well. The Times Network Value Pack has been very aptly priced at Rs 13, and it consists of 3 premium English channels, one Bollywood entertainment and 3 English movie channels. Out of all three, the Value Pack by Times Network will be a very convenient solution for the subscribers. The other Times Network News Pack will be available for Rs 5 and it will consist of 3 premium news and one Bollywood entertainment channel. Lastly, Times Network has also listed a Times Network HD Premium Pack at Rs 20/- which includes all the 8 channels of the network, out of which 3 are SD channels & 5 are HD channels. These channels include Times NOW HD, ET NOW, Mirror NOW, Zoom, Movies NOW HD, MN+(HD), MNX HD and Romedy NOW HD.
New Trai Regime Sets Max Cap at Rs 130 Network Charge
Speaking about the new Trai order, Times Network, MD & CEO, MK Anand said, “TRAI’s tariff order is a transformational shift which will lead to a coherent framework that safeguards consumer interests and strengthen the offerings of the broadcasters. As we transition into this new phase, we see this as an opportunity that enables transparency and flexibility to the TV viewing experience and benefits the entire TV ecosystem. We consistently create disruptive and engaging content for the progressive Indian consumers, and we are confident that we will continue to be the preferred English network that offers differentiated content at a compelling price.”
Further, more DTH operators like Sun Direct and D2h have also charted out their pricing and channel packs information. Similarly, Airtel Digital TV has also listed its pricing. It is worth noting that under the new Trai regime the network charge has been max capped at Rs 130, with the taxes, the subscribers will only have to pay Rs 154 per month as the network charge, and it will avail them 100 channels. Over that, if the subscribers opt for pay channels, then they will be charged additionally.
