Discovery Channel, India, has suggested inclusion of channels carrying educational programmes in the list of channels proposed to be exempted from licensing in the new broadcast bill.

This demand has been made by the company in its proposal to the Joint Patliamentary Committee (JPC) earlier this week.

The JPC had invited suggestion from various broadcasters with regard to the drafted bill by July 7.

The Draft bill includes a provision for exempting certain channels from licensing in case they are free-to-air, air programmes related to international news, sports and current affairs, and, carry no or few advertisement.

It was reliably learnt from industry sources that in its suggestions, which were submitted with the committee, Discovery has suggested removal of the "free-to-air" clause from the Bill, and, a clear definition of the limit up to which advertisement can be carried in such channels should be offered.

The channels said that given the revenue situation in the country, the Government should not insist on free-to-air as most channels may have to eventually fall back upon subscription fees for mere survival.

ESPN has already been converted into a pay channel and there are hints from various quarters that Star Sports will follow the suit.

Discovery has further asked for clear definition of the advertisement limit. Earlier, the channel had made it clear that it will be very selective in choosing advertisers and sponsors and would only carry premium advertisements. Significantly, this clause might be seriously affecting channels like BBC and CNN.

BBC's recent restructuring has made it imperative for the channel to lay more emphasis on revenue collection through advertisement. CNN is already carrying a reasonable number of advertisements.

According to media experts, without the state support no channel like Discovery can survive in the country if clauses such as free-to-air and nominal advertisement are not altered in the Bill.

Experts added that given the condition of all such channels such clauses can only support a channel like Pakistan TV (PTV).

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.