TRAI releases recommendations on “Issues related to FM Radio Broadcasting”

Source:  The post is based on the article “TRAI releases recommendations on “Issues related to FM Radio Broadcasting” published in PIB on 6th September 2023

What is the News?

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India(TRAI) has released its recommendations on issues related to FM radio broadcasting including private FM Radio operators.

What are the recommendations given by TRAI to address issues related to FM radio broadcasting?

Firstly, extend the existing FM license period of 15 years by 3 years.

Secondly, private FM radio operators should be allowed to broadcast news and current affairs programs, limited to 10 minutes in each clock hour.

Thirdly, annual license fee of a FM radio channel should be de-linked from non-refundable one-time entry fee and the license fee should be calculated as 4% of the Gross Revenue (GR) of the FM radio channel during the respective financial year. 

Fourthly, the Government may take appropriate measures to provide relief to the FM radio operators to address challenges posed due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Fifthly, functions or features pertaining to FM radio should remain enabled and activated on all mobile handsets having the necessary hardware.Built-in FM radio receivers in mobile handset must not be subjected to any form of disablement or deactivation.

Sixthly, a Standing Committee, headed by a senior officer of Joint Secretary or above level, to oversee and monitor the compliance by mobile phone manufacturers (or importers) may be established by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology(MeitY) .

Lastly, an online grievance redressal portal should be provided for submitting information or complaints of case of any non-compliance as regards enablement of FM radio functionality in such mobile handsets that have the necessary functionality for FM receivers.