MUMBAI: All four major broadcasters decided early this year to pull out their free-to-air channels from Prasar Bharati-run direct-to-home (DTH) operator DD Free Dish, the platform which was earlier a great challenge to private DTH players. Dish TV India group CEO Anil Dua stated that the decision has opened up opportunities for other existing players.

In an earnings call after Dish TV’s quarterly results, Dua answered that customers have been in a wait and watch mode but some of the ‘creamy layer’ has definitely moved to other options. The second segment has also benefited Dish TV.

“A large number of customers are still hoping that they will have their channels back or other new channels substituting for the ones which have gone. And there are, of course, bare minimum channels in terms of entertainment and movies still available,” Dua added.

Although many customers are staying put, Dua stated it has opened up opportunities for other players. Dish TV has also capitalised upon this new opportunity during the first quarter of FY 20. However, he also noted that it really depends upon how that platform evolves and how customers react to that going forward.