New Delhi: The Government of India has approved a one-time special relaxation for automatic provisional empanelment of successful bidders from Batch-III e-auction under the FM Policy (Phase-III). This significant step is aimed at accelerating the rollout of private FM radio services in new cities while offering immediate operational and financial support to radio operators.
Effective immediately, the relaxation allows successful bidders to gain provisional empanelment with the Central Bureau of Communications (CBC) from the date their radio channels become operational. This provisional empanelment will last for six months or until the stations become eligible to apply for regular empanelment under the current Policy Guidelines for Empanelment of Private FM Radio Stations.
During this six-month period, the base rate applicable to private FM radio stations without IRS (Indian Readership Survey) data will be applied, ensuring an immediate revenue stream for operators. This measure is expected to encourage radio operators to commence operations swiftly in new cities, expanding the reach of private FM services and enhancing access to radio broadcasting across the country.
The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business in India and fostering a supportive ecosystem for the broadcasting sector. By addressing operational challenges and providing financial incentives, the relaxation aims to ensure smoother business operations and create a more conducive environment for the growth of private FM radio services.
This move is part of the government’s broader efforts to promote a vibrant and competitive media landscape while ensuring faster access to quality radio broadcasting services nationwide.
