New Delhi: In a significant move to bolster its upcoming OTT platform, Prasar Bharati, India’s public broadcaster, has extended an invitation to private satellite TV channels to join its digital venture. The state-owned media giant is seeking applications from interested broadcasters to stream their linear channels on its OTT platform for a period of one year.
To be eligible, TV channels must hold a valid license from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) for downlinking and distribution across India. The application window closes on August 12.
Prasar Bharati plans to categorize TV channels on its OTT app into four distinct groups based on language and genre: English news, Hindi news, non-news channels (all languages), and non-news channels (regional).
ALSO READ: Heena Gambhir Returns to Journalism with Times Now
The public broadcaster has proposed a revenue-sharing model where TV channels will receive 65% of the ad revenue, with Prasar Bharati retaining the remaining 35%. Additionally, the platform will incorporate advertisements based on SCTE-35 markers, with unsold ad slots allocated to promoting Prasar Bharati and its partner channels.
To select channels for its OTT platform, Prasar Bharati will rank applicants based on their DAVP (Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity) rates within their respective categories. Channels with the highest DAVP rates will secure a spot on the platform.
Successful applicants will be issued a letter of allotment, requiring them to sign an agreement within 15 days.
It’s worth noting that Prasar Bharati announced its plans to launch a family-friendly OTT platform, promoting Indian culture and values, a few months ago. The inclusion of private TV channels is a strategic step to expand the platform’s content offerings and reach a wider audience.
This development is being closely watched by the media and entertainment industry as it could potentially reshape the OTT landscape in India.
