# TV ratings blackout extends as broadcasters seek faster audience measurement

> Broadcasters push to end TV ratings blackout ahead of festive season as pressure mounts to restore audience data for advertisers
- Title: TV ratings blackout extends as broadcasters seek faster…
- Summary: Broadcasters push to end TV ratings blackout ahead of festive season as pressure mounts to restore audience data for advertisers BARC's ratings suspension…
- Keywords: tv ratings, barc, india, festive season, advertisers, broadcasters, audience measurement, tv ratings blackout, ministry of information and broadcasting, ibdf, ratings, blackout
- Source: The Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/media/entertainment/media/tv-ratings-blackout-gets-longer-broadcasters-worried-as-pressure-to-restore-audience-measurement-provide-advertisers-greater-visibility-rises-ahead-of-festive-season/articleshow/134397274.cms
- Author: Javed Farooqui
- Published: 2026-09-21T19:33:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: tv ratings, barc, india, festive season, advertisers, broadcasters, audience measurement, tv ratings blackout, ministry of information and broadcasting, ibdf
## TV ratings blackout deepens
Broadcasters and the ministry of information and broadcasting clash over TV ratings suspension, with festive season pressure mounting to restore audience measurement.
## BARC registration deadline nears
BARC's panel count reaches 77,596, aiming for 80,000 by December 31 to meet registration requirements.
## New independent director joins
Muralidharan Ramachandran will become BARC's fifth independent director to meet 33% representation under TV Ratings Policy 2026.
## Industry demands restoration
Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation members urge immediate BARC ratings restoration to address revenue visibility and advertiser confidence issues.
## Financial impact of blackout
BARC recorded ₹297 crore revenue in 2024-25, down from ₹319 crore, with net profit falling to ₹16 crore.
## Festive season urgency
Broadcasters warn that delayed ratings affect holiday advertising visibility and revenue planning for the festive season.
## Key takeaway

BARC's ratings suspension affects advertiser visibility and revenue planning for Indian broadcasters during holidays