In a notable trend within India’s media landscape, over 50 television channels have surrendered their broadcast licenses to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in the last three years, highlighting a major shift toward digital consumption. Many channel owners cited falling viewership, rising operational costs and the surge in online streaming platforms as key factors influencing their decision to exit traditional broadcasting.
Industry analysts say this reflects broader changes in audience behaviour, with viewers increasingly turning to OTT platforms, social media and mobile apps for news, entertainment and niche content. Channels from regional, niche and general entertainment segments have been among those opting out, often redirecting resources to digital content production and streaming strategies.
Broadcasters say that maintaining a TV channel involves high fixed costs for frequency fees, content creation and distribution, which are becoming harder to justify as digital offers more targeted engagement at lower expense. Meanwhile, advertisers are reallocating budgets toward digital advertising and video-on-demand services, further dampening the revenue potential for linear TV.
Media experts believe the trend will continue as internet penetration deepens and smart devices become ubiquitous, pushing traditional broadcasters to innovate or reinvest in digital transformation to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving content ecosystem.
