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Kochi to have more FM channels

Many people had written off the radio after the advent of satellite television. But the radio is making a comeback.

The FM channels have become friendly modes of entertainment and education. Some media groups are already running shows successfully. They have, in fact, been able to make their presence felt.

The All India Radio has a network of FM stations across the country. The opening up of the sector meant that they will have to compete with the private players.

Kochi had its FM but it was never a 24-hour station, despite the demand for non-stop broadcast. The starting of a new FM station, Rainbow FM, in Kochi last year heightened the hopes of listeners. Though it was meant to be a Malayalam station, it became a Hindi channel soon.

Malayalam content could not be continued, owing to shortage of personnel, according to K.Ramamoorthy, Assistant Station Director, AIR, Kochi. Enough hands would soon be available and the Rainbow FM would be back with Malayalam programmes, he said.

Interestingly, a few private channels are getting ready to establish their slot in the air. These channels have got the sanction after succeeding in the competitive bidding process.

FM radio is gaining more attention, especially from the youth.

R.Ramabhadran Pillai

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