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Phase II Cable TV Digitization rolls on, to close by March 2013

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Manish
New Update

Digitization of the analogue cable television networks goes in full swing, India embarks the second phase of digitization process which is expected to be completed by March 31st 2013. After the successful completion of cable digitization across three metros viz Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata; the second phase will digitize cable TVs in 38 cities across 15 states.

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A high level meeting headed by Uday Kumar Varma, Secretary, Information and Broadcasting has decided to conduct one day workshop to prepare an integrated plan of action for a smooth and flawless transition in phase II cities in November. A Nodal Officer would be nominated from each state and each targeted city to sort out local issues. Ministry also intends to increase the man power through BECIL to make extensive field visits in the targeted cities of Phase II.

Uday Kumar Varma, Secretary, Information and Broadcasting stated, "Digitization of the Analogue Cable Television Networks was completed in the metro cities of Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. As on 5th November 2012, 22.4 lakh Set Top Boxes (STBs) have been installed in Mumbai, 25.15 lakh in Delhi, whereas in Kolkata 17.74 lakh STBs have been installed. The matter is sub-judice in the Madras High Court about Chennai. 29 lakh subscribers have DTH connections in the four metro cities."

Ministry has asked the MSOs to make a thorough assessment of the number of Set Top Boxes (STBs), taking into consideration credible data from the ground level. MSOs have also been asked to provide information about the estimated number of STBs and their plans for procurement of STBs to ensure that the deadline of 31st March 2013 is met in these Phase II cities, said Uday Kumar Varma.

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"Ministry has also started working on a communication campaign to target the specific needs of 38 cities of phase II. It was emphasized that a meticulous planning of the phase II cities is essential incorporating learnings from phase I cities," added Uday Kumar Varma.

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