The Centre’s Television Ratings Policy 2026 has come into force with immediate effect, replacing the 2014 guidelines and setting in motion sweeping changes that could disrupt the existing ratings ecosystem, particularly for the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India.
Under the new framework, all existing rating agencies are required to register within 30 days, and no entity can generate or publish ratings until it achieves full compliance. Read together, these provisions effectively act as an operational halt for any current ratings body, including BARC India, leaving no room to continue business as usual.
While the policy does not explicitly revoke BARC India’s right to operate, it does provide a limited carve-out for self-regulatory bodies “such as the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC).” This exemption applies to three eligibility conditions — restrictions on directors having affiliations with broadcasters or advertisers, the Rs 5 crore net worth requirement, and cross-holding norms. However, these relaxations do not override the immediate-effect clause, the mandatory 30-day registration window, or the prohibition on publishing ratings prior to compliance.
As a result, the policy reads as an effective shutdown of BARC India’s current operating model, at least until it aligns with the new rules. According to highly placed sources within the ratings body, BARC India is likely to fast-track its application process in a bid to ensure that television ratings can be released next Thursday.
The new policy mandates that rating agencies seek registration for a 10-year period, pay a fee of Rs 10 lakh, and furnish two bank guarantees of Rs 25 lakh and Rs 75 lakh, both valid for 10 years. Additionally, the company, along with its directors and key executives, must obtain security clearance. Prior approval from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is required for appointing directors and key executives, as well as for any changes to the board.
Governance norms have also been tightened. At least 50 per cent of the board must comprise independent directors with no direct or indirect links to broadcasters, advertisers or advertising agencies.
In terms of measurement, the policy requires ratings to be technology-neutral, capturing viewership data across cable TV, DTH, terrestrial television, OTT platforms, connected TVs and other feasible platforms. It also mandates an annual establishment survey covering at least ten times the number of metered homes.
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