BARC blackout opens a new channel for TV viewership data

The suspension of Broadcast Audience Research Council ratings has prompted new interest in RPD-based data collection for TV viewership. GTPL Hathway has started sharing data from connected set-top boxes to track channel viewing. While Tata Play has utilized RPD for internal purposes, concerns remain regarding its industry-wide credibility and sampling transparency. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has emphasized RPD's importance for future deployments by distribution platform operators.