India’s telecom sector needs updated licensing and authorisation frameworks, and there is a need for a policy reset to align broadcasting regulation with converging telecom and digital delivery networks, according to the latest Annual Report for 2024–25 from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

“The year 2024–25 marked a defining phase for the Indian telecom and broadcasting sectors, witnessing expansive growth, technological transformation, and regulatory progress,” the report says, adding that its interventions were aimed at ensuring “structured growth” amid rapid technological change.

As reported by private FM Radio operators to TRAI, there were 388 private FM radio stations operational as on 31st March 2025, besides the 591 radio channels operated by the public service broadcaster – All India Radio (AIR). As far as Community Radio Stations is concerned, as per the information provided by the MIB, out of the 639 permissions issued as on 31st March 2025 for the setup of such stations, 531 community radio stations became operational. As reported by private FM Radio operators to TRAI, the advertisement revenue of private FM Radio stations was ₹ 1818.71 crore in the year 2024-25.

Read the full report here.