TV broadcasters to legally challenge Trai's advertising cap notices

Entertainment Nov 22, 2025

Big TV networks are pushing back against new notices from Trai, which say they've been running too many ads—over the 12-minutes-per-hour limit.
Sent on November 18, these notices give broadcasters just 15 days to respond.
Now, major industry groups like IBDF and NBDA are exploring their legal options.

Why does it matter?

TV ad revenue is already hurting, with a 10% drop in ad volumes this year and a 6% dip in earnings to ₹29,400 crore in 2024.
If the ad cap is enforced strictly now, it could squeeze channels even more—especially as streaming platforms aren't held to the same rules.
The decision here could shape how much money traditional TV makes and how it competes with OTT and free-to-air platforms going forward.