[icernet] Cable TV industry deeply divided over pricing

[Arul Selvan]

Although the government will eventually decide on what should be the 
basic cost, the variation in pricing suggested by broadcasters and cable 
operators has created confusion among ordinary consumers. But there is 
overall agreement among broadcasters and cable operators that majority 
of Indian consumers will not pay more than Rs 200 for watching satellite 
television -- including pay channels, which have to be compulsorily 
viewed through a set top box.

On the other hand, cable operators feel they will be out of business if 
the basic charges are fixed under Rs 40. Cable Networks Association 
(CNA), National Cable Television Association (NCTA) and Cable Operators 
Federation of India (COFI) have petitioned the government that the cost 
for an average of 500 subscribers works out to Rs 180 per month and 
cable TV homes should pay Rs 250 per subscriber per month to watch free 
to air channels.

Source:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/cms.dll/html/uncomp/articleshow?artid=35305784