In a significant development for the Indian cable television sector, two prominent Multi-System Operators (MSOs), Siti Networks Limited and the Hinduja-group’s NXTDIGITAL, have officially withdrawn their memberships from the All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF). This departure comes amidst claims from both companies that the industry body has “increasingly strayed from its original mission of being a neutral and inclusive representative platform for all stakeholders.”
The news of these high-profile exits follows closely on the heels of AIDCF’s recent release of a status report on the Indian cable TV sector on June 9, 2025, which highlighted the urgent need for interventions to rejuvenate a stagnating industry. However, the simultaneous emergence of cracks within the federation itself suggests underlying tensions and differing visions for the future of digital cable in India.
Siti Networks, a founding member of AIDCF, confirmed its withdrawal, acknowledging the federation’s historical role in advocating for the interests of the cable television industry. However, a spokesperson for Siti Networks stated, “We have observed a growing deviation from AIDCF’s founding mission and core values. This shift, in our view, represents a departure from the ideals of inclusivity and collective progress that originally inspired the formation of the Federation. As such, we have made the decision to part ways with AIDCF.” The company reiterated its commitment to engaging in industry efforts that promote innovation, transparency, and mutual growth.
Echoing similar sentiments, N.K. Rouse, COO of NXTDIGITAL, commented, “This decision marks a thoughtful step forward for NXTDIGITAL, reflecting our commitment to engaging only where we can add real value. We remain deeply appreciative of the opportunities and initiatives afforded by AIDCF and move ahead with continued respect for the ecosystem and its stakeholders.”
Sources indicate that both MSOs had formally communicated their intent to quit AIDCF to the president last week. AIDCF, which itself evolved from the MSO Alliance around 2014, recently announced a new leadership team. GTPL Hathway Limited MD Anirudhsinh Jadeja was named its new President, succeeding S.N. Sharma, CEO of DEN Networks Limited. Asianet Satellite Communications Limited Vice-Chairman Sankaranarayana was elected Vice-President, and Sanjay Goyal, Group CFO of Fastway Transmissions Private Limited, was elected Treasurer.
The departure of key players like Siti Networks and NXTDIGITAL from AIDCF could significantly alter the dynamics within the Indian cable TV industry. It raises questions about the future unity and effectiveness of industry representation, especially as the sector grapples with challenges such as declining subscriptions, competition from OTT platforms, and the need for regulatory reforms. The move underscores a growing emphasis on direct value addition and a desire for platforms that genuinely foster collective progress across all stakeholders in the evolving broadcasting landscape.
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Key Highlights:
- Siti Networks and NXTDIGITAL have resigned from the All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF), citing that the industry body has deviated from its core mission of neutrality and inclusivity.
- This departure occurs shortly after AIDCF released a report on June 9, 2025, highlighting the need for urgent interventions in the stagnating Indian cable TV sector, indicating internal dissent within the federation.
- Both MSOs emphasized their continued commitment to industry growth and innovation but through platforms that offer tangible value and uphold principles of collective progress.
- The exits raise questions about the future of industry representation and the potential impact on the Indian cable TV sector’s ability to address ongoing challenges and regulatory needs.