No More Set Top Box Needed: Ashwini Vaishnaw Announces New Technology to Watch TV Channels Directly

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a major update for television viewers across India, including cities like Delhi and Patna. On March 23, 2026, the government revealed that people can now watch Free-To-Air (FTA) channels directly on their television sets without the need for a separate DTH set-top box. This move is designed to simplify the TV viewing experience and make high-quality entertainment more affordable for every household.

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How can you watch TV without a set-top box?

The new system works through an in-built satellite tuner and an advanced Electronic Program Guide (EPG) integrated directly into the television set. This technology follows the IS 18112:2022 standard set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Here are the key technical details:

• In-built Tuner: New TV sets will have a built-in digital satellite tuner.
• Antenna Requirement: Viewers only need to install a small 60 cm dish antenna on their roof or wall.
• Mandatory Rules: The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) has made it mandatory for all TV sets manufactured or sold in India to include these tuners.
• Channel Access: Users can access over 200 to 400 channels via the DD Free Dish initiative.

What are the benefits for the common man?

This initiative significantly lowers the entry cost for digital entertainment. Typically, a standard DD Free Dish setup including the box and accessories costs around ₹2,000. By removing the need for an external box, this cost is reduced for the consumer. The initiative aligns with the Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat goals, ensuring that even remote areas get access to high-quality information and entertainment without monthly fees.