NEW DELHI: The record says that in the Indian Media Space, only 26% FDI is allowed in news and current affairs media, while 100% FDI 100% FDI is allowed in non-news media like a trade publication and general entertainment channel (GEC)
Information & broadcasting ministry planning to allow private FM radio stations to air current affairs and news programmes that are sourced from any bonafide news source.
Prakash Javadekar, I & B Minister said that “Why should FM channels be banned from broadcasting news? The Centre is considering allowing privately-owned FM radio channels to start their own news broadcast.” He further added, “The auction of FM radios has already entered its third phase. We will issue the guidelines in this connection shortly.”
EMMC (Electronic Media Monitoring Centre) was underway to include both private radio and community radio stations. To enlarge its infrastructure Rs.90 crore was sanctioned.
According to officials, EMMC will become a “listening post” for over 1,500 TV channels and all 800 private radio stations. “We will start with monitoring a few radio stations and then extend it to others,” the sources said. Radio stations have to maintain 90 days of tapes as records which can be sought by the ministry. The ministry plans to bring all content on broadband.
Private radio stations as a preference, will fell several years against government’s AIR if this comes through….
