New Delhi: The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the proposal for conduct of 3rd batch of ascending e-auctions for 730 channels in 234 new cities with estimated reserve price of Rs.784.87 crore under Private FM Radio Phase Ill Policy.

The state-wise list of cities/towns and the number of private FM channels approved for fresh auctions is enclosed as an annexure. Eight cities/towns in Gujarat, namely Amreli, Bhuj, Botad, Dahod, Gandhidham, Jetpur Navagadh, Patan, and Surendranagar Dudhrej, will receive 24 FM channels (three each).

The Cabinet also approved the proposal to charge Annual License Fee (ALF) of FM channel as 4% of Gross Revenue excluding Goods and Services Tax (GST). This will be applicable for 234 new cities / towns.

The Private FM Radio rollout in 234 new cities / towns will fulfil the unmet demand for FM radio in these cities / towns, which still remain uncovered by Private FM radio broadcasting and bring new / local content in mother tongue.

It will lead to creation of new employment opportunities, boost to local dialect and culture and ‘vocal for local’ initiatives.

Many of the approved cities / towns are in Aspirational districts and LWE affected areas.  Setting up of Private FM Radio in these areas will further strengthen Government outreach in these areas.

Annexure