The government on Friday relaxed the rules governing cable television networks by making the registration process for Local Cable Operators (LCOs) fully online, with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting designated as the registering authority.

The amended Cable Television Network Rules of 1994 came into effect on Friday, and the government announced that the Local Cable Operators registration certificate would be issued in real-time after the successful verification of applicant details, including Aadhaar, PAN, CIN, and DIN, among other documents.

Previously, the LCO registration process was conducted offline at the local head post office in the area where the LCO's office was situated, with the head postmaster serving as the registering authority.

Under the new rules, LCOs will apply for new registrations or renewals online via the Broadcast Seva Portal of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The registration certificate will also be issued online.

LCO registrations will be granted or renewed for a period of five years, with a processing fee of Rs 5,000. The registration will be valid for operations across India. Renewal applications must be made at least 90 days before the registration's expiry.

LCOs may appeal to the Appellate Authority, i.e., the Under Secretary (DAS), if their registration or renewal is denied by the registering authority (Designated Section Officer). The appeal must be filed within 30 days of the denial.

Existing LCO registrations will remain valid until the period mentioned in the registration certificate. However, if the existing registration is valid for less than 90 days, LCOs must immediately apply for renewal via the portal.

Applications for registration or renewal made to post offices that are currently pending must be withdrawn, and new applications must be submitted via the portal.