At the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai, industry leaders and policymakers convened to discuss the future of radio broadcasting in India. The consensus: while digital radio represents the future, a harmonious coexistence with analog systems is essential during the transition period. This approach aims to ensure accessibility, affordability, and a seamless shift for both broadcasters and listeners.
Digital radio offers numerous advantages over traditional analog systems. According to Sanjay Jaju, Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), digital radio enables more efficient spectrum usage, allowing multiple channels to broadcast on a single frequency. This not only enhances audio quality but also frees up spectrum for other services and facilitates the implementation of emergency warning systems.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) echoed these sentiments, highlighting that digital broadcasting can transmit three to four channels on a single frequency carrier, compared to just one in analog mode.
Despite the benefits, the shift to digital radio is not without challenges. Stakeholders, including the Association of Radio Operators for India (AROI) and the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), have expressed concerns over the costs associated with upgrading infrastructure and the need for affordable digital receivers.
To address these issues, industry bodies have urged TRAI to adopt a single digital radio technology standard, such as Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) or HD Radio. A unified standard could reduce costs, prevent market fragmentation, and accelerate adoption.
Recognizing the current limitations, stakeholders have proposed a simulcast approach, where digital and analog broadcasts operate simultaneously. This strategy allows for a gradual transition, ensuring that listeners without digital receivers can continue to access radio services. The AROI recommends maintaining analog transmissions until digital receivers are adopted by over 80% of the population.
Furthermore, the ICEA advocates for HD Radio due to its compatibility with existing devices like cars, Bluetooth speakers, and mobile phones, facilitating a smoother transition for consumers.
The Indian government has demonstrated its commitment to advancing digital radio technology. Public broadcaster Akashvani (All India Radio) has installed 35 Medium Wave and 3 Short Wave DRM transmitters capable of operating in digital, analog, and simulcast modes. Between 2010 and 2021, the government invested ₹504.12 crore in digitizing Akashvani’s transmitters.
Additionally, the MIB supports emerging technologies through policy directions and infrastructure upgrades, aiming to foster an environment conducive to digital innovation in broadcasting.
The discussions at WAVES 2025 underscore the importance of a balanced approach to digital radio adoption in India. While embracing the advantages of digital broadcasting, stakeholders acknowledge the necessity of maintaining analog services during the transition. Through collaborative efforts, unified standards, and strategic investments, India aims to revolutionize its radio broadcasting landscape, ensuring accessibility and quality for all listeners.
Key Highlights:
- WAVES 2025 highlighted the need for a balanced transition to digital radio, emphasizing the coexistence of analog and digital systems.
- Digital radio offers improved spectrum efficiency and audio quality, but challenges like infrastructure costs and receiver affordability remain.
- Stakeholders advocate for a unified digital radio standard to streamline adoption and reduce costs.
- The Indian government has invested significantly in digital radio infrastructure and supports a phased transition strategy.