Govt e-auctions add FM channels; private FM policy mandates 20% local-language content
FM radio market expansion through e-auctions; Private FM policy mandates 20% local-language programming
- Private FM Radio policy requires private FM broadcasters to meet local-language content and local-content promotion obligations as part of daily programming.
- Private FM Radio Phase-III permits private FM broadcasters to access Prasar Bharati towers and sites wherever available to support faster rollout.
What happened
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stated that the Government conducted e-auctions for 730 FM channels across 234 new cities on 9–10 July 2025 using a transparent process that was published in print and electronic media before the auction.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting reported that 18 bidders succeeded in this cycle, including 9 new entrants to the FM radio sector, and that 386 private FM radio channels are operational.
Private FM Radio policy translates e-auction-based channel allotments into operational broadcasting through licensing instruments with timelines, local-language content obligations, and infrastructure access through Prasar Bharati where available.