The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the proposal for the third batch of ascending e-auctions for 730 FM radio channels across 234 new cities, with an estimated reserve price of Rs. 784.87 crore under the Private FM Radio Phase III Policy. Notably, Belgaum has been allocated four channels, but despite the allocation since 2011, no bids have been made.
The Cabinet also approved a proposal to set the Annual License Fee (ALF) for FM channels at 4% of Gross Revenue, excluding Goods and Services Tax (GST). This new fee structure will apply to the 234 newly approved cities and towns.
The rollout of Private FM Radio in these 234 cities and towns is expected to address the existing demand for FM radio, providing new and local content in native languages. This initiative is also anticipated to create employment opportunities, promote local dialects and cultures, and support the ‘vocal for local’ movement.
Many of the approved cities and towns are located in Aspirational districts and areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism (LWE). The establishment of Private FM Radio stations in these regions will further enhance the Government’s outreach efforts.
