Union Cabinet approves rolling out of private FM Radio in 234 new cities and towns
Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a proposal for e-auctions to set up 730 channels in 234 new cities across the country with an estimated reserve price of Rs.784.87 crore, as part of the initiative to expand the reach of private FM Radio channels.
“The Cabinet decision on the rollout of private FM Radio to 234 cities and towns will enhance access to diverse and local content, thus encouraging creativity and encouraging local languages as well as cultures,” posted Mr. Modi on X.
Many of these cities and towns are located in aspirational districts and areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism. A maximum of 100 channels are to be provided in 32 cities/towns of Uttar Pradesh, followed by 68 across 22 cities/towns of Andhra Pradesh, 61 in 20 cities/towns of Madhya Pradesh, and 59 in 19 cities/towns of Rajasthan. While 57 channels will be made available in Bihar, 53 channels have been proposed for Karnataka’s 16 cities/towns, 42 in West Bengal, 36 in Maharashtra, 33 in Tamil Nadu, 31 in Telangana, 28 in Punjab, 24 in Gujarat, 27 in Haryana and 19 in Jharkhand.
