Six private FM channel become operational in Phase 11

New Delhi, July 31 (UNI) Six private FM channels have become operational in the Phase second of the expansion of the FM Radio.

Grant of Permission Agreements (GOPA) have been signed in respect of 10 channels so far.

The Government had invited bids for 337 channels in 91 cities across the country. Out of which 245 channels got finally allocated for which Letters of Intent (LOI) were issued.

Two LOIs were later cancelled for non-fulfillment of terms and conditions. No increase in number of channels is proposed other than those taken up in FM Phase-II.

Policy on expansion of FM radio broadcasting services through private agencies (Phase II) provides only for specific channels city-wise. No national FM private channel has been permitted.

The policy specifically prohibits allocation of more than 15 per cent of total allocated channels in the country to a single company - including its holding, subsidiary, inter-connected companies and companies with the same management.

Moreover, networking of channels by any two entities has also been specifically prohibited.

As many 21 private FM radio channels - Maharashtra - 5, Delhi - 3, West Bengal - 4, Tamil Nadu - 4, Karnataka - 1, Gujarat - 1, Uttar Pradesh - 1, Madhya Pradesh - 1, and Andhra Pradesh - 1, set up under Phase I regime, are presently operational.

This Information was given by Minister of Information&Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, P. R. Dasmunsi in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha today.

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