The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has today released its recommendations on “Formulating a Digital Radio Broadcast Policy for private Radio broadcasters”. The framework has included terms and conditions along with reserve prices for commencement of digital radio broadcasting services in four ‘A+’ category cities — Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai — and nine ‘A’ category cities including Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Surat, Pune, Jaipur, Lucknow, Kanpur and Nagpur.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) had, through a reference dated 23rd April 2024, sought TRAI’s inputs under section 11 (1)(a)(i) of the TRAI Act, 1997. TRAI has issued a consultation paper on 30th September 2024 and has received 43 comments and 13 counter-comments, followed by an Open House Discussion held on 8th January 2025. After considering stakeholder feedback and detailed analysis, the Authority has finalised its recommendations.
The recommendations have proposed that digital radio services be introduced in simulcast mode, allowing new broadcasters and existing FM operators (on a voluntary basis) to broadcast one analog channel, three digital channels, and one data channel on a single frequency. A single digital radio technology standard has been recommended, with the government tasked to decide the suitable system in consultation with stakeholders or through the spectrum auction process.
TRAI has also suggested that spectrum for new channels in the 13 cities be assigned through auction, with reserve prices notified for each city. Successful bidders and existing operators opting for migration have been provided multiple payment options, including instalments spread over 15 years.
The period of authorisation for digital radio broadcasting has been fixed at 15 years, with revenue models aligned to existing broadcasting and telecommunications frameworks. The government has also been advised to constitute a high-level steering committee to monitor rollout, ensure availability of digital receivers in mobile phones and car systems, and oversee market development.
Further, TRAI has recommended that Prasar Bharati share infrastructure with private broadcasters at concessional rental rates, while permitting voluntary infrastructure sharing across sectors. It has also suggested that sunset timelines for analogue broadcasting be decided later, based on progress of digital migration.
With the new policy, TRAI has said that digital radio will enable superior audio quality, additional channels, and value-added services, opening up fresh opportunities for broadcasters and expanded listening options for audiences.
