TRAI recommends light-touch authorisation framework for app-based linear TV (ALTD) services, including FAST
On 26 October 2026, TRAI released recommendations to treat Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) services, including FAST, as a distinct sub-category of TV channel distribution under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, with a 20-year national authorisation.
Summary
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released its recommendations on an 'Authorisation Framework for Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) Services' on 26 October 2026. The exercise began with a Ministry of Information and Broadcasting reference of 15 December 2025 on Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) services. TRAI recommended that ALTD be a distinct sub-category under 'Television Channel Distribution Services' under Section 3(1)(a) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023, with a national service area, an initial validity of 20 years renewable for 10-year periods, a ₹10,000 processing fee and a one-time ₹1 lakh entry fee, but no authorisation fee or bank guarantee. MIB would maintain a 'Master ALTD app repository', and device makers would have to allow only authorised ALTD apps.
Key facts
- Regulator
- Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
- Released
- 26 October 2026
- MIB reference
- 15 December 2025, under Section 11(1)(a) of the TRAI Act, 1997
- FAST
- Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television
- Legal basis
- Section 3(1)(a) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023
- Service area
- National
- Validity
- 20 years, renewable for 10-year periods
- Fees
- ₹10,000 processing fee; ₹1 lakh one-time entry fee
- Not required
- Authorisation fee, bank guarantee, security deposit
- Repository
- Master ALTD app repository with MIB
Practice MCQs 2 questions
In TRAI's October 2026 recommendations on ALTD services, what does 'FAST' stand for?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television
What initial validity did TRAI recommend in October 2026 for an ALTD service authorisation?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — 20 years