How has the year 2015 been?
2015 was a flat year for cable sector, there was more of planning and less of action. All MSO’s were in a wait-n-watch mode for DAS III implementation, only in the last quarter it gained some momentum.
What are the key industry trends that have emerged?
The main trends that have emerged:
- To increase Broadband and Internet penetration, this was the sole mantra for all MSO’s for their survival.
- And putting together appropriate ala carte schemes and prepaid plans for cable operators & viewers, so the main aim was streamlining the business.
How has the expansion in 2015 been? Which all new regions did you tap?
Expansion was in terms of increasing our reach in existing states & districts for strengthening our base for phase III, so that we could reach out to all talukas and municipal areas of all districts. The main expansion was to reach coastal Maharashtra & coastal Karnataka. That way BRDS covers Mumbai to Goa & Goa to Mangalore.
What are your views on Digitization phase III and IV?
Digitization of DAS III is the most challenging phase in digitizing, as it geographically covers whole of India. The number is very huge around 40mn STBs. The area is too wide spread and it is difficult to reach out to each location, either by bandwidth or control room or dark fiber. It is the most challenging process and time consuming also.
But if DAS III is implemented properly it is as good as we cover DAS IV & that will be a easier job. DAS III is a mammoth job.
BARC has its rural measurement matrix in place, do you see any kind of impact on the MSOs?
Yes, with BARC rural measurement matrix in place, it is bound to impact MSO carriage/placement fees. Since weightage of rating is reduced in metro and tier II cities and that has been spreadout to rural areas. There could be correction of around 30% in MSOs; some amount could be allocated to rural areas from which many would be first time receiver of placement fees. It is a good opportunity for broadcasters to get correction done.
In terms of subscribers how has the year been and what are your expectations from the next year?
Subscribers have adjusted to digital cable world. They are getting ample of content at a very low cost. Awareness of HD content, value added services, have to be created from MSO & LMO side towards their subscriber. Demand for Ala carte has not been that strong from the subscribers end till today, MSOs expect this to happen in coming year.
What are Bhima Riddhi’s expansion plans for 2016?
BRDS has an aim to reach 1mn digital base by March 16 & 2mn base by March 17 from existing base. BRDS has plans for higher % of HD penetration and wants to focus on Broadband internet and value added services for the year 2016-2017.
Which will be your areas of focus in all areas Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka?
Our core area is Mumbai, South Maharashtra, north Karnataka, entire Goa and small portion of Gujarat.
What are your expectations from the government in the New Year?
We are expecting the government to provide us with bandwidth to rural areas at reduced cost. Maximum areas which have to be covered are remote areas & villages of India in DAS IV. Government should provide tax subsidy in excise, custom duty & entertainment tax atleast for DAS IV areas and help MSOs/LMOs to get content at reduced cost from Broadcaster.
