Considering growing digitization Cable TV business and number of multiple operators entering in this field, Govt. of India, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, TRAI and other agencies should come out with uniform formula in line with Mobile Phone operation. Govt. should direct Set Top Manufacturers to standardise in line with GSM Mobile phone and any set top box can connect with any operator hassle free from any operator. This will increase competition, choice for consumers and it is easy to change operator in case of faulty services.

1. Standardization of Set Top Box with Portability System
In line with MNP of Telecom Service Provider.
We wish to bring to your kind notice that there is almost monopoly in cable service provider. Once we purchase a Desk Top Box, the service providers engaged in monopoly and lacks of accountability. On refilling they reduce number of days and before completing the month, have to refill again. Many channels wanted don’t shown and there is many discrepancy. In case there is repair in set top box, one has to purchase same set top box again and again and the repairing cost also high. Consumers have no choice, but to buy again and again if he want to change operator.
Govt. should issue guidelines on operation and also standardization of set top box with manufacturers and there should be a SIM available to change operator like GSM mobiles. We already referred this case through Public Grievance and we got reply saying that there is huge expenses involved in this process. Duty of the govt. is to formulate policy and give direction to the manufacture including TRAI and other concerned authorities in the interest of consumer at large.
There should also be provision for providing internet connection through set top box and other multiple connections like USB, and other connections including SIM in GSM Mode so that a synergy of technology can be created with futuristic needs.
Providing Info highways, digitization, rural connectivity through internet and quick penetration of internet through Cable TV, modification and Standardization of Set Top Box with multiple connection is very much necessary and like Mobile Phone consumer have a choice to change different operator with different connections with a single instrument. A brain storming session with Service Providers, Consumers, Regulatory Authority and Manufacturers needed to be take place at the earliest to implement this idea quickly