New Television Rating Policy 2026: Key Reforms and Impact Explained

India’s TV Rating Policy Overhaul: Transparency, Audits and Data Expansion

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has introduced a revised Television Rating Policy to improve credibility, transparency and independence in audience measurement across India’s broadcasting sector.

Eligibility and Governance Reforms

A key reform is the reduction in the minimum net worth requirement for rating agencies from ₹20 crore to ₹5 crore, encouraging broader participation. To ensure neutrality, at least half of the Board must consist of independent directors with no association with broadcasters or advertisers. The policy also prohibits agencies from offering consultancy services that could create conflicts of interest.

Expansion of Measurement Infrastructure

The framework mandates a significant increase in the number of metered households. Agencies must scale up to 80,000 homes within 18 months and aim for 1.2 lakh homes in the long run. Existing entities are required to meet initial expansion targets within six months. Measurement will cover all television screens in sampled households, improving data depth and representativeness.

Transparency and Audit Mechanisms

To enhance accountability, agencies must disclose methodologies and anonymised datasets publicly. A dual-audit structure has been introduced, involving quarterly internal audits and annual third-party audits. Additionally, a government-led Audit and Oversight Team will conduct inspections. Compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 is mandatory to ensure data privacy and protection.

Other Key Provisions and Policy Impact

The policy excludes landing page viewership from rating calculations, restricting it to promotional use. Broadcasters must report such placements to rating agencies. It also establishes grievance redressal systems, appoints nodal officers and introduces graded penalties for violations. Further, TV distribution platforms and OTT services can release periodic viewership data without mandatory registration. The updated policy replaces the 2014 guidelines and aims to create a fair, competitive and transparent media ecosystem.

Exam-Focused Points

• Net worth requirement reduced: ₹20 crore → ₹5 crore

• 50% independent directors mandatory in Board

• Metered homes target: 80,000 → 1.2 lakh

• Dual audit system (internal + external) introduced

• Landing page views excluded from ratings

• Compliance with Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023