The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recently unveiled a series of recommendations aimed at rejuvenating the FM radio sector, a move hailed by industry stakeholders as a critical intervention to breathe new life into the medium.

Key Recommendations:

• Structured Authorization Framework: TRAI proposes a well-defined authorization framework under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, to streamline licensing processes and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for FM radio operators.
• Financial Viability Measures: To ensure the sustainability of FM stations, TRAI suggests revisiting existing fee structures and exploring alternative revenue models, thereby enhancing the financial health of broadcasters.
• Promotion of Low-Power FM Stations: Recognizing the potential of community-centric broadcasting, TRAI recommends facilitating low-power, small-range FM stations to cater to localized audiences, thereby enriching content diversity.

The Association of Radio Operators for India (AROI) has lauded these recommendations, viewing them as transformative steps that could revitalize the FM radio landscape in India.

If implemented, these recommendations could usher in a new era for FM radio, making it more accessible, financially viable, and attuned to the needs of diverse audiences across the country.

Key Highlights:

• TRAI has issued recommendations to revitalize FM radio in India.
• Key proposals include a structured authorization framework, financial viability measures, and promotion of low-power FM stations.
• The AROI has welcomed these recommendations as potential game-changers for the industry.