FM RADIO (4-Mar-2008)

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA 
INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING 
LOK SABHA 
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO:868 
ANSWERED ON:04.03.2008 


FM RADIO 
Annayyagari Shri Sai Prathap;Bhakta Shri Manoranjan;Singh Shri Ganesh 


Will the Minister of INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING be pleased to state: 


(a) the present status of the second phase of FM radio; 


(0) the number of additional frequencies likely to be introduced in the country including in the State of Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, 
Andhra Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, State-wise; 


(c) whether the Government proposes to introduce at least one FM channel in each of the States and Union Territories; 
(d) if so, the details thereof location-wise; and 


(e) the time by when the second phase of FM Radio is likely to be operational? 


Answer 


THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (SHRI P.R. DASMUNS)) 

(a) Pursuant to the notification of policy for private FM radio (Phase Il), a total of 337 channels were put on bid. Out of this, 280 
channels were successfully bid and permission granted for operationalisation of 245 channels after scrutiny. As on date, 203 channels 
(including 21 channels of Phase-l and 182 of Phase Il) are operational. 


(b) Government has decided to allot 93 vacant FM channels and 4 additional channels in Dehradun. The state-wise details of these 
channels have been indicated in the statement attached (Annexure). 


(c)& (७) The Government has decided to expand FM Radio through private agencies under Phase-lllto other cities. However, the 
details of location have not been worked out. 


(e) The remaining FM Radio Stations of Phase-ll are likely to be operationalised by the end of March, 2008.