What is an MSO License?

An MSO (Multi-System Operator) License is mandatory for all operators who wish to provide cable TV network services through a digital addressable system (DAS) in India. This license is issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), and the application process is facilitated online through the Broadcast Seva portal.

What is a Multi-System Operator (MSO)?

A Multi-System Operator (MSO) is a cable television service provider that operates multiple cable systems. MSOs manage the delivery of multiple TV channels to end-users via cables or satellite systems. They act as intermediaries between broadcasters and local cable operators, ensuring viewers receive digital content efficiently.

To apply for an MSO License, the applicant must meet the following criteria:

• Must be an Indian citizen and of legal age.

• Can be an individual, firm, society, or association.

• If a firm, it must be registered/incorporated under Indian laws.

• Must have a clean credit record with no loan defaults.

• Should be declared of sound mind by a competent court.

• Must not be involved in criminal offenses.
  
  
  

Documents Required for MSO License in India

If the Applicant is an Individual:

• Identity Proof: Voter ID or Aadhaar

• Date of Birth Certificate

• PAN Card

• Income Tax Return (ITR)

• Residential Proof

• Bharat Kosh Challan (Rs. 1,00,000)

• Net Worth Certificate signed by a Chartered Accountant

• Profit & Loss Account and Balance Sheet

• Authorization Letter for agent

• Undertaking on Rs. 10 stamp paper
  
  

For Existing Cable Operators:

• GST Registration

• Entertainment Tax Registration (if applicable)

• List of Local Cable Operators

• List of Ground/Local Channels

• List of Mandatory and Permitted Satellite Channels

• Agreements with Broadcasters
  
  

For Non-Cable Operators:

• GST Registration or application receipt

• Entertainment Tax Registration or application receipt
  
  

For Associations or Body of Individuals:

• Entity registration proof (e.g., partnership deed, society registration)

• Identity and Residential proof for all members

• PAN card for each member

• ITR and Net Worth Certificate with Balance Sheet and P&L Account

• Bharat Kosh Challan (Rs. 1,00,000)

• Authorization Letter

• Undertaking on Rs. 10 stamp paper
  
  

If the Applicant is a Company:

• Certificate of Incorporation under Companies Act, 2013

• PAN Card of Company and Directors

• Identity, Residential Proof, and DOB of Directors

• Net Worth Certificate signed by CA, Balance Sheet, and P&L Account

• ITR of Company

• Bharat Kosh Challan (Rs. 1,00,000)

• Authorization Letter and Undertaking on Rs. 10 stamp paper

• Articles of Association (AOA) and Memorandum of Association (MoA)
  
  
  

Application Submission Norms

After applying online through the Broadcast Seva Portal, the following must be sent via speed post within 15 days:

• • Undertaking on Rs. 10 stamp paper

  • Affidavit for provisional registration on Rs. 100 stamp paper

  • Receipt of MSO license payment (Bharat Kosh Challan)

  • Scanned copy of speed post receipt and submission acknowledgment

Process to Obtain MSO License in India

1. Visit the Broadcast Seva Portal.

2. Fill out the MSO license application form online.

3. Upload all mandatory documents.

4. Pay the application fee of Rs. 1,00,000 via Bharat Kosh and retain the challan.

5. Print the undertaking on Rs. 10 stamp paper.

6. Send all hard copies (including affidavit and challan) by speed post to the concerned authority within 15 days.
   
   
   

Get Expert Assistance from Fastzeal

Securing an MSO license requires adherence to precise regulations and error-free documentation. If you're unfamiliar with the licensing procedure or wish to avoid delays, Fastzeal offers expert support. With extensive experience in government registrations, our team ensures smooth documentation, application filing, and successful grant of your MSO License.