India’s TRAI Proposes Licensing Framework for FAST Streaming Services

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended a new regulatory framework requiring apps that stream linear television channels over the internet to secure government authorization. The proposal targets platforms such as Samsung TV Plus, YuppTV, and Xiaomi’s TV+, classifying them under a new category dubbed Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) services.

Under the proposed guidelines, these providers would be required to incorporate as Indian entities, store user viewing data within the country, and undergo mandatory security audits. TRAI asserts that current oversight is insufficient, noting that many channels distributed through these apps lack the government permissions required of traditional cable or satellite broadcasters. The regulator emphasized that content distributed in India should be subject to centralized oversight to ensure compliance with national program and advertising codes.

While the licensing would grant these platforms the ability to register and host channels, they would also face ownership limits and inspection requirements. Services such as Netflix, which focus on on-demand content, and social media live streams remain excluded from this framework. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will now evaluate whether to adopt these recommendations.