About IP TV

IPTV stands for Internet Protocol Television. It is a technology that delivers television content over
the Internet Protocol (IP) networks. Instead of using traditional cable or satellite signals, IPTV relies
on the internet to transmit TV channels and content to users. IPTV (Internet Protocol television) is a
service that provides television programming and other video content using the Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) suite, as opposed to broadcast TV, cable TV or satellite signals.
An IPTV service, typically distributed by a service provider, delivers live TV programs or on-demand
video content via IP networks.
IPTV uses various internet protocols, such as Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) for live
TV broadcasts and Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) for on-demand content. These protocols
ensure the efficient delivery of multimedia content. Users typically need a device to access and decode
the IPTV streams. This can be a dedicated IPTV set-top. box or a smart TV with built-in IPTV
capabilities media content. Users need a reliable and high-speed internet connection to receive IPTV
content. The quality of the streaming experience is often dependent on the user's internet bandwidth.
Users need a reliable and high-speed internet connection to receive IPTV content. The quality of the
streaming experience is often dependent on the user's internet bandwidth.
An IPTV system may be used to provide video content over a private network in an enterprise,
although such implementations are far less common than subscriber-based models due to the
complexity, network latency and scaling issues.
IP TV in Nepal
Previously, there were only digital contents broadcasted in Nepal. However, due to the rise of IPTV,
viewers now have access to a wider range of content. This has shaped the media content industry in a new
way, as providers are now able to offer more options to consumers. Since, Nepal is geographically
treacherous, DTH service had been popular. DTH doesn’t need any terrestrial infrastructures, making
it easier to access in remote areas. However, the rise of FTTH (Fiber to the Home) has made it possible
for ISPs to provide high-speed internet connections to customers. This has enabled IPTV services to
become more widely available, even in areas where DTH was once the only option. Not only in Nepal,
according to a report by Media Partners Asia, DTH subscribers in India declined by 3% in 2020, while
IPTV/OTT subscriptions grew by 23%. The report also predicts that IPTV/OTT subscriptions will
continue to grow in India and other South Asian markets over the next several years.
The features of an IPTV service can vary depending on the provider, but some common
features include:
1. Live TV channels: With an IPTV service, you can watch live TV channels from around the
world.
2. Video on demand: You can also watch movies, TV shows, and other videos on demand.
3. Time-shifted TV: Some IPTV services offer time-shifted TV, which allows you to watch
shows that have already aired.
4. Multi-screen viewing: Many IPTV services allow you to watch on multiple devices
simultaneously.
 5. Electronic program guide: An electronic program guide (EPG) is usually included with an
IPTV service, which allows you to see what's currently playing and what's coming up.
Some of the benefits of an IPTV service include:
1. Convenience: You can watch TV channels and videos on demand from your computer,
smartphone, tablet, or TV.
2. Cost-effective: IPTV services are often less expensive than traditional cable or satellite TV
services.
3. Wide selection: IPTV services offer a wide selection of TV channels and videos from around
the world.
4. High-quality video: IPTV services often deliver high-quality video and audio.
5. Personalization: Some IPTV services allow you to customize your channel lineup and create
playlists.

An OTT (Over-the-Top) platform refers to a streaming service that delivers video content over the
internet, bypassing traditional cable or satellite television providers. OTT platforms provide users with
access to a wide variety of on-demand content, including movies, TV shows, documentaries, and other
video content. Users can stream this content directly to their devices, such as smartphones, tablets,
smart TVs and computers. These platforms typically operate on a subscription-based model, where
users pay a monthly fee to access the content library. Some platforms also offer a combination of
subscription-based and ad-supported models. The rise of OTT services has had a significant impact
on the traditional television and entertainment industry, transforming the way people consume video
content.
The Telecommunication Standardization Sector of the International Telecommunications Union
(ITU-T) defines Over-the-Top (OTT) as an application accessed and delivered over the public
Internet that may be a direct technical/functional substitute for traditional international
telecommunication services. So, the OTTs comprise communication services such as messaging,
telephony, and content services that provide audio/video communication. In Nepal, the government
has recently proposed regulations to bring OTT services like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Viber under
its legal framework. This move is driven by concerns that these platforms, operating freely in the
Nepalese market, are impacting the revenue growth of the local telecommunications sector. The
government aims to address the issue of these services operating without payment of fees and their
widespread use for communication, which has potential implications for the revenue streams of
traditional telecommunication services in the country.
Some of the rules and regulation that government of Nepal are trying to bring for these
platforms are as follows:
1. It is necessary for OTT to register themselves in Nepal for their operation.
2. OTT platforms must be registered and have their branch office in Nepal as per the Companies
Act, 2006.
3. The companies must maintain security and privacy and commit to consumers’ data protection.
4. Companies must also establish a Content Delivery Network (CDN) inside Nepal for providing
faster and more secure services.
5. The Ministry emphasized that all movies or videos must be approved by the Film Censor
Board before being shown. This is in accordance with the Motion Picture (Production,
Exhibition, and Distribution) Act of 2026, suggesting regulation of online platforms like OTT
and IPTV, as well as other internet video services.

6. The MoICT cautioned that those found guilty could be fined up to Rs. 5,000 and have their
license revoked by the Chief District Officer (CDO). Additionally, the authority may seize
filmmaking tools, equipment, and materials used for exhibition and distribution.

7. If a company adds a member or a customer in Nepal, it has to establish a cache server in

Nepal. The company must store its financial transactions with customers on its servers.

8. The government has also mandated content ratings as per the customers’ age group. For
content suitable for all age groups, the content gets a ‘U’ rating. An ‘R’ rating is issued for
content suitable to 10 – 18 years old. The contents viewable for 18+ shall get an ‘A’ rating.

9. In order to apply for the Authorization, a foreign OTT Provider is required to register a branch
office in Nepal, pursuant to the Companies Act, 2006. All OTT Providers shall complete these
processes. Alternatively, the foreign OTT Provider can appoint an Intermediary. Such
Intermediary must be registered, as per the Companies Act.

10. Any person wishing to register as an OTT Provider shall file an application/proposal to the
Authority, including their legal status and the describing the services they offer.

11. The Authority, after carefully studying and analyzing the legal and technical aspects of the
request letter, may issue the authorization to provide OTT service in Nepal