MUMBAI: When the cable industry committed on Saturday to provide all channels (pay and FTA) available for a total monthly tab of Rs 222 (exclusive of taxes), the question raised was how did they propose to do it if the broadcasters refused "to play ball".
 
 
The clarification has now come in. Hinduja group MSO INCableNet says it will offer "a full range of genres, including movies, serials, educational programmes, music and news within Rs 222". The catch "222" is that it does not specify just which pay channels will come at that price. Rajiv Vyas, COO of INCableNet says: "The composition of channels falling in each category will depend on the pricing by the broadcaster and the commercial agreement signed with them."

In effect this means that if the pay broadcasters "refuse to cooperate", the subscriber would get only those pay channels that fall within the definition set by the cable service provider. Tag this position along with Zee Telefilms' demand that Subhash Chandra's network should be allowed to offer its channels as a complete bouquet gives some idea of just what is the choice being offered at the various "consumer-friendly" prices that are being tom-tommed.

Meanwhile, Vyas indicated that "INCableNet is also considering creating of value packs for the consumers, which will pick out most popular channels from each bouquet and offer them at discounted pricing to allow viewers to get full facet of entertainment at a lower cost."

Another value add is that INCableNet's INDigital services will provide electronic programme guides (EPG) that will show clippings of all programmes being shown on the various channels. The EPG will also indicate the programme details such as title of programme, cast etc. Additionally, INDigital is offering pay per view facility that will allow viewers to watch movies, sports, clippings, Bollywood events, etc. in addition to normal programming.