TRAI Proposes DRM Audit Rules, IPTV Compliance Checks Set For Greater Clarity

New Delhi: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has published a draft audit manual aimed at clarifying Digital Rights Management (DRM)-based television distribution systems and setting the stage for clearer compliance checks, particularly for Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) service providers. The proposed framework, titled "Draft Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services DRM-based Digital Addressable Systems Audit Manual, 2026," outlines procedures for scrutinizing systems listed under Schedule X of the interconnection regulations.

TRAI's move aims to adhere to the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulations, 2017, which mandate annual audits of Conditional Access System, Subscriber Management System, DRM, and associated infrastructure for television channel distributors. The regulator previously issued a Digital Addressable Systems Audit Manual in March 2026, providing guidelines for systems under Schedule III.

However, IPTV stakeholders requested clearer audit requirements for DRM-based platforms operating under Schedule X. The draft manual is currently open for stakeholder feedback and has not been presented as a final framework. TRAI's proposal includes clause-wise procedures to verify compliance, covering subscriber management systems, content encryption, access controls, and fingerprinting technologies.

It also extends to set-top boxes and software applications employed for content delivery. The framework outlines pre-signal compliance audits, annual subscription audits, standard reports, and defined responsibilities for distribution platform operators, broadcasters, and auditors. Standard vendor declarations, audit forms, and report formats are proposed to enhance reporting and compliance assessment, ultimately promoting clarity in audit expectations across DRM-based television platforms while supporting the annual compliance process.