MUMBAI: The Radio Broadcast Policy committee, set up by the ministry of information and broadcasting (I&B) to formulate policy to govern the opening up of phase II of FM broadcast in the country, has invited suggestions on the same.
In an advertisement issued in leading dailies this morning, the committee has asked for suggestions or comments regarding the modalities and procedural issues pertaining to the implementation of the second phase of private FM participation.
The committee, set up by the I&B ministry has to submit its report by 30 September. The terms of reference of the panel, inter alia, will determine a transparent and effective bidding/ auction process to be adopted for allotment of frequencies; assessment of a viable license fee structure for various cities; and suggestions regarding extent of foreign equity participation to make the business more viable.
The current crop of players in the private FM arena have expressed their bitterness at the licencing system and are pressing for a business-friendly revenue sharing model. While the government has resisted the change (so far) to a different model, the Radio Broadcast Policy Committee has met the FM players in the city recently to take cognizance of their demands.
The committee has now asked for suggestions to be sent to it within 10 days, in order to consider the same before the 30 September deadline.

Also read:

Govt constitutes a committee for FM second phase