The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released a consultation paper focusing on formulating a Digital Radio Broadcast Policy for private radio broadcasters. This move follows the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting’s (MIB) request in April, seeking TRAI’s input on updating policies for the transition to digital radio broadcasting, especially given the technological advancements in the field.
Currently, private broadcasters in India operate exclusively on the FM band (88-108 MHz), while All India Radio (AIR) offers services across multiple bands—medium wave (MW), short wave (SW), and FM. The shift to digital radio promises to provide significant advantages, such as the ability to broadcast multiple channels over a single frequency while maintaining superior audio quality.
AIR has already initiated the digitization of its MW and SW networks, and trials for digital radio in the FM band have been conducted. However, private FM broadcasters are yet to adopt digital radio technology. TRAI’s consultation process aims to address these gaps by creating a comprehensive digital radio policy that encourages collaboration across broadcasters, transmission equipment manufacturers, and digital radio receiver makers.
The consultation period will be open until October 28, 2024, providing stakeholders the opportunity to contribute their insights on the transition to digital radio broadcasting.
Key Highlights:
- Consultation Process: TRAI seeks input for formulating a digital radio policy for private broadcasters, with the process open until October 28, 2024.
- Technological Shift: Digital radio offers significant benefits over analogue, including the ability to broadcast multiple channels on a single frequency and improved audio quality.
- AIR Leads the Way: All India Radio has initiated digitization efforts, but private FM broadcasters are yet to follow suit.