New Delhi: Around 50 television channels in India have given up their broadcast licences over the past three years, reflecting a clear shift in the country’s media landscape as audiences and advertisers move steadily toward digital platforms.
Government data shows that several broadcasters have voluntarily surrendered their permissions between 2023 and 2026. Industry sources say the decision is driven mainly by falling viewership for traditional linear television and rising costs, at a time when online streaming and connected television are growing rapidly.
Major media groups such as Zee Entertainment Enterprises, TV Today Network, NDTV, ABP Network and Eenadu Television are among those that have surrendered licences for some of their channels. In several cases, the move involved shutting down underperforming channels or streamlining operations rather than a complete exit from broadcasting.
Industry officials point to a sharp decline in pay television subscriptions. Subscriber numbers have fallen significantly in recent years as viewers shift to mobile phones, smart televisions and on demand content platforms. Advertising revenue has also increasingly moved to digital media, putting further pressure on traditional television channels.
Some licence surrenders were linked to regulatory simplification. For example, companies that earlier held separate uplinking and downlinking permissions have given up duplicate licences after policy changes allowed combined permissions for the same channel.
Media analysts say the trend does not mean the end of television in India, but it does signal a structural change. Broadcasters are focusing more on digital first strategies, investing in streaming platforms and online news products while reducing costs in conventional satellite broadcasting.
Experts believe more consolidation and rationalisation could follow in the coming years as the industry adapts to changing viewer habits. At the same time, regional and niche content is expected to find new life on digital platforms, where audiences are growing faster than on traditional television.