Uplinking/Downlinking Channel Permission – A Complete Guide
Obtain uplinking/downlinking channel permissions from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) via the Broadcast Seva Portal for legal satellite TV broadcasting in India.
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What is Uplinking and Downlinking?
In India, broadcasters must obtain government authorization to transmit or receive TV signals via satellite. Uplinking refers to sending electronic signals from a station to a satellite, while downlinking means receiving those signals back on Earth. The permission is granted under the Uplinking and Downlinking Policy Guidelines, 2011.
Why is Permission Required?
Uplinking/downlinking permission ensures compliance with national broadcasting and security standards. It regulates content flow and infrastructure used in TV signal transmission and is legally mandatory before operating a TV channel via satellite.
Who Grants This License?
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) is the licensing authority. Applications are processed via the Broadcast Seva Portal, and approvals are subject to financial and technical scrutiny.
Key Benefits of Securing Uplinking/Downlinking Permission
• Legal authorization to broadcast satellite TV in India • Enables channel listing with cable and DTH operators • Regulatory protection for content and operations • Builds trust with viewers, advertisers, and partners • Facilitates global reach for Indian broadcasters
1. Documents Required for Uplinking/Downlinking Approval
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Memorandum & Articles of Association (MoA & AoA)
• List of Directors and Shareholders
• Audited Balance Sheet
• Board Resolution authorizing the application
• Details of Foreign Employees (if any)
• Equipment Specifications
• FDI Details (if applicable)
• 90-day Operational Report
• Technical documents like block diagrams and schematics
Step 1: Document Preparation
Compile all required documents as per MIB guidelines. Ensure accuracy to prevent delays or rejection.
Step 2: Application Filing on Broadcast Seva Portal
Apply online via the Broadcast Seva Portal. Fill in correct technical and legal details and pay the application fee.
Step 3: Application Scrutiny by MIB
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting examines the application, assessing financial capability, legal status, and infrastructure.
Step 4: Issuance of Letter of Intent (LoI)
Upon successful evaluation, the MIB issues a Letter of Intent. The applicant must then pay the license fee and submit a Performance Bank Guarantee.
Step 5: Grant of Final License
Final permission is issued, typically valid for 5 years. Renewal requires annual fee payments and compliance review.
Net Worth Requirements
Applicants must fulfill the following net worth criteria based on the type and number of channels or teleports:
| Manufacturer (Production Capacity) | License Fees/year (INR) |
|---|---|
| First Teleport | ₹3 Crores |
| Additional Teleport | ₹1 Crore |
| First Non-News TV Channel | ₹5 Crores |
| Additional Non-News TV Channel | ₹2.5 Crores |
| First News TV Channel | ₹20 Crores |
| Additional News TV Channel | ₹5 Crores |
Timeline for Uplinking/Downlinking Permission
The licensing process typically takes 4–6 weeks, subject to document verification and MIB processing timelines.
Document Compilation
1 week
Prepare and collate required company and technical documents.
Application Submission
2–3 days
Submit application on Broadcast Seva Portal and pay fees.
Scrutiny and LoI Issuance
3–4 weeks
Application reviewed and Letter of Intent issued.
Final Approval
1 week
Submit guarantee and fee to obtain broadcasting license.
Why Choose Do Startup for Uplinking/Downlinking Permission?
We simplify the licensing process for broadcasters in India
Expertise in MIB compliance and documentation
Proven success with national broadcasters
Fast and accurate application filing
Support with financial and technical representation
End-to-end coordination with MIB authorities