Pemra invites applications for issuing DTH distribution service licences

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has invited applications for issuing direct to home (DTH) satellite TV distribution service licences to registered companies for 15 years period.

The interested companies have been asked to submit their applications by August 15 along with a non-refundable demand draft or pay order of Rs500,000. Pemra will announce the shortlisted companies on September 19 which will be invited to participate in the bidding process for the issuance of DTH licence.

Pre-bid conference will be held on July 18. The names of successful bidders will be announced on October 3. Any change in schedule will be uploaded at the website of Pemra.

It may be mentioned that the companies which have already submitted applications in response to the advertisement of Pemra published on September 10, 2015 may not apply afresh as they had already been shortlisted; however, they should have to submit relevant documents as per requirements of the bid participation.

According to Pemra officials the roll out of DTH services in the country would boost the broadcast sector and help in content creation.  Expansion of native digital TV services would also help in controlling illegal TV transmission from neighbouring countries.  Necessary information regarding information memorandum eligibility, application forms, documents details, initial price, method of shortlisting standards, conditions of licence are available at the website of PEMRA (www.pemra.gov.pk).