Global Trade Alert

On 14 September 2012, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the proposal of the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion for Review of the policy on Foreign Investment (FI) in companies operating in the Broadcasting Sector.
 
The following FDI limits have been decided for companies operating in the broadcasting sector :
1. Teleports (setting up up-linking HUBs/Teleports): Direct to Home (DTH); Cable Networks (Multi-System-Operators operating at National or State or District level and undertaking upgradation of networks towards digitalization and addressability): 
The previous investment limit of 49% has been enhanced to 74% according to the following criteria: 
a. Upto 49% FDI would be allowed under automatic route
b. Beyond 49% upto 74% FDI would be allowed through the government route.
2. Mobile TV: FDI up to 74% has now been permitted in this sector according to the same criteria as above.
3. Headend-in-the Sky Broadcasting Service: The previous FDI limit of 74% would prevail in this service as per the criteria mentioned above. 
 
This move is a step towards greater liberalisation of the services sector in India which will allow greater foreign investment to enter the country.