India’s Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for the 3rd batch of ascending e-auctions for 730 FM radio channels in 234 new cities, with an estimated reserve price of Rs. 7.84 billion under the private FM Radio Phase III Policy.

According to the official statement, the Cabinet also approved a proposal to set the Annual License Fee (ALF) for FM channels at 4 percent of Gross Revenue, excluding Goods and Services Tax (GST). This will apply to the 234 new cities and towns.

The rollout in these new locations will fulfil the unmet demand for FM radio and offer new and local content in regional languages.

This initiative is also expected to create new employment opportunities, promote local dialects and culture, and support the ‘vocal for local’ initiative.

Many of the approved cities and towns are in aspirational districts and areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism (LWE). The introduction of Private FM Radio in these regions will further strengthen the Government’s outreach efforts.

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