New Delhi: In a move aimed at accelerating the rollout of private FM radio services across India, the government has announced a one-time relaxation for successful bidders of the FM Phase III e-auction. This decision allows for automatic provisional empanelment with the Central Bureau of Communications (CBC), effective immediately upon the launch of their radio channels.
This provisional empanelment will be valid for six months or until the radio stations meet the eligibility criteria for regular empanelment as per the ‘Policy Guidelines for Empanelment of Private FM Radio Stations.’ During this period, the base rate applicable to stations without Indian Readership Survey (IRS) data will be applied.
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This measure is expected to provide immediate financial relief to radio operators in new cities, encouraging them to commence operations without delay. By facilitating a faster rollout of FM radio services, the government aims to enhance access to radio broadcasting across the country.
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business in India and providing operational support to radio operators. The move is expected to streamline business operations and foster a more conducive environment for growth in the broadcasting sector.
