The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India issued digital radio broadcast policy recommendations for private operators on Friday. The guidelines establish terms and reserve prices for services in 13 major cities across four categories. New broadcasters must adopt a digital format, but existing FM stations can migrate voluntarily under the simulcast system.
Each frequency will carry one analog channel, three digital channels, and one data channel under the new framework. Operators must begin simulcast operations within two years of auction completion or migration approval. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting requested recommendations under the TRAI Act of 1997 after releasing a consultation paper in September 2024.
Authorizations remain valid for 15 years, with fees calculated on adjusted gross revenue. Digital broadcasting enables superior audio quality compared with analog transmission, which supports only one channel per frequency. The competitive environment creates opportunities for broadcasters and offers listeners multiple options with value-added services through the enhanced technology platform.
Each frequency will carry one analog channel, three digital channels, and one data channel under the new framework. Operators must begin simulcast operations within two years of auction completion or migration approval. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting requested recommendations under the TRAI Act of 1997 after releasing a consultation paper in September 2024.
Authorizations remain valid for 15 years, with fees calculated on adjusted gross revenue. Digital broadcasting enables superior audio quality compared with analog transmission, which supports only one channel per frequency. The competitive environment creates opportunities for broadcasters and offers listeners multiple options with value-added services through the enhanced technology platform.
