Go digital. That seems to be the mantra amongst Indian TV channel managers these days. ETC Networks Ltd's etc channel is taking the same tack. The switch to a digital feed commenced on 15 July and is scheduled to be completed in September, says Yogesh Shah, director ETC Networks. etc is available to subscribers under dual illumination at present.

"We have imported state-of-the art digital boxes and have started their rollout. Within the next month an additional consignment of imported boxes will be distributed across the country to ensure the transition from analog to digital and keep up the existing viewership figures," says ETC Networks Ltd director Yogesh Shah.

Shah said that the company was going all out to stabilise itself this year. Last year ETC had pumped in major investments into acquiring film rights and setting up a news division. The latter was shut down and rationalisation of the company's operations is under process. "This year the focus is on getting our operations right," says Shah. Market sources reveal the channel has close to Rs 130 million as payments outstanding from advertisers on its book.

On the uplinking front, Shah says the company is still evaluating bids for earth station and playout equipment from various suppliers.