TRAI Seeks Input on New Digital Rights Management Audit Manual
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released a draft manual aimed at enhancing the auditing process for Digital Addressable Systems (DAS) within the broadcasting and cable sectors. This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection Regulations, which were established to govern the interconnectivity and functionality of various broadcasting technologies.
On March 10, 2026, TRAI issued the Draft Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Digital Rights Management (DRM) based Digital Addressable Systems Audit Manual, 2026, inviting stakeholders to provide feedback on the proposed guidelines. These regulations specifically require annual audits of DAS used by distributors of television channels, involving systems such as Conditional Access Systems (CAS), Subscriber Management Systems (SMS), and set-top boxes (STBs).
Purpose and Features of the Draft Manual
The newly proposed audit manual is designed to detail compliance procedures for DRM systems, which primarily cater to Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) and associated services. The necessity for this manual emerged from discussions with a variety of stakeholders, including IPTV operators, broadcasters, and auditors, all of whom underscored the need for a structured audit approach.
Key features of the Draft DRM Audit Manual include:
- A clause-by-clause procedure to verify adherence to DRM requirements, encompassing SMS, encryption, fingerprinting, and associated software applications.
- Defined scope of work alongside documentary requirements and audit protocols for pre-signal audits as well as the annual subscription audits.
- Established timelines to ensure timely completion of audits.
- Clearly outlined responsibilities for Distribution Platform Operators (DPO), broadcasters, and auditors throughout the auditing process.
- Standard formats for vendor declarations, audit documentation, and reporting.
Invitation for Stakeholder Feedback
The draft manual has been made available on TRAI’s official website, where stakeholders can access it and submit their comments, suggestions, and detailed justifications by October 30, 2026. Feedback is encouraged to be sent electronically to specified email addresses. Additionally, for any queries, stakeholders can reach out to Dr. Deepali Sharma, TRAI’s Advisor (B&CS).
This initiative by TRAI marks a significant step forward in establishing robust audit procedures that align with the evolving landscape of digital broadcasting, ensuring transparency and accountability in the telecommunication sector.
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