PRIVATE FM RADIO BROADCASTING

FM Radio sector was opened up for private participation since July 1999 by the Government of India through the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (“MIB”). The roll out of Private FM broadcasting continued in different phases, namely, Phase-I, Phase-II & Phase-III (Batches 1&2). Under FM Policy, all the Private FM Broadcasters in a particular city are mandated to operate from a single location only. Accordingly Common Transmission Infrastructure (CTI) was created in different cities.

BECIL, as system integrator has played an important and key role in setting up of Common Transmission Infrastructures (CTIs) across India where Prasar Bharati Infrastructure (Land & Tower ‘or’ only Land) is available for operationalization of private broadcaster’s Radio Channels. BECIL procures all the desired equipment/ components and material (imported & indigenous) on behalf of the Broadcasters for setting up of CTI. The transmitters are procured individually by the broadcasters. Once CTI infrastructure setup is complete, it is handed over to the Broadcasters at a particular location.

FM Phase-III (Batch-1 & 2) have successfully been completed. The operations of all FM channels are in conventional Analogue Mode. As on date there are 388 Private FM Radio Channels operational in 113 Cities across India.

The Government of India through the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (“MIB”) has decided to open up Phase - III (Batch – 3) of FM Radio Broadcasting for private participation and Cabinet has approved a significant expansion of the Private FM Radio network across 234 new cities/towns in India. This decision is aimed at enhancing local content, creating new employment opportunities, and strengthening the government’s outreach, especially in underserved regions. The rollout involves the introduction of 730 new FM channels in 234 new cities with an estimated reserve price of ₹784.87 crore.

With the expansion, the government aims to make radio a key tool for regional engagement, fostering local culture, and enhancing communication across the country. The decision reflects a commitment to democratising access to media, empowering local communities, and supporting India's diverse linguistic and cultural landscape. The rollout is anticipated to position FM Radio as a cornerstone of India's local connectivity and information dissemination. The process to digitalise broadcasting in FM band is under active consideration by the Govt. and outcome of decisions in this regard is expected shortly. BECIL is expected to play key role in the process of implementation of digitalisation in FM band as well.

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