The Hindu : National : “Let private FM channels air news”

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Saturday, Feb 23, 2008
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National

“Let private FM channels air news”

Special Correspondent

Also allow broadcasters to increase Foreign Direct Investment

NEW DELHI: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has suggested that private FM radio broadcasters be allowed to air news and enhance Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

In its fresh set of recommendations to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, the TRAI has said the FM radio channels should be allowed to take content from All India Radio, Doordarshan, authorised TV news channels, UNI, PTI and other authorised news agencies. No other source of news will be permitted at present.

FDI limit

It has said the FDI limit for those interested in broadcasting news should be increased from 20 to 26 per cent. Similarly, the FDI cap for FM radio broadcasters should be raised from 20 to 49 per cent.

Further, the TRAI has suggested halving the annual fee for all existing permission holders in the northeast and Jammu and Kashmir for an initial three years.

The geographical basis for private FM radio bidding may be changed from the city to district level.

Enlarging coverage area

Besides, the existing operators may be given the option to enlarge the area for the same channel to provide coverage to the full district after fulfilling certain conditions, the TRAI has said.

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