Disney Star has finally closed the deal with the top three MSOs (Multi System Operators) to include the entertainment and sports channels in their base packages. MSOs, including GTPL, Hathway Digital and DEN Networks, did not include the Disney Star sports and entertainment channels in their base bouquets due to the implementation of NTO 3.0. Disney Star had a problem with this. But as the deal between these companies is now close, it means that the subscribers of these cable TV operators can continue to watch IPL (Indian Premier League) 2023 on their hookups.
It was important for both Disney Star and the cable TV operators to resolve this issue as soon as possible because Viacom18 is streaming the IPL on the JioCinema app for free for everyone, which meant the users could switch to the JioCinema app instead of high prices to be paid for the channel bouquets.
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According to an ET report, the issue between the broadcasting giant and Reliance Industries-backed MSOs has been resolved. When the NTO 3.0 was implemented, the three Reliance Industries-backed MSOs threatened to remove the Disney Star entertainment and sports channels from their basic channel bouquets. However, the issue has now been resolved and more than 70 Disney Star channels would be available to the three operators’ 18 to 20 million cable TV users in India.
It is important for the broadcasters to see that their channels are included in the basic channel packages. This is because it helps in increasing the reach of their channels as most of the subscribers go for the basic channel packages. The report quoted an unnamed official as saying base prices of the bouquets would have to be increased due to the withdrawal of Disney Star channels. Thus, the prices of the basic bouquets may increase by at least Rs 25 to Rs 30, which may not sit well with the subscribers.
