TRAI Unveils Roadmap for Digital Radio Policy; Recommends Simulcast Rollout in 13 Cities

New Delhi, October 4: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on Friday released its long-awaited recommendations on formulating a digital radio broadcast policy for private broadcasters, proposing the rollout of simulcast services in 13 major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Pune.

The framework paves the way for new entrants to broadcast one analog, three digital, and one data channel on the same frequency, while existing FM stations may voluntarily migrate to the hybrid mode.

TRAI has suggested adoption of a single digital radio technology standard for VHF Band II and auction-based spectrum allocation, with reserve prices ranging from ₹20.52 crore in Kanpur to ₹194.08 crore in Mumbai. Broadcasters opting to migrate will have six months after the auction to exercise the option, with phased payment schedules available.

The regulator has also called for the creation of a new category of “Radio Broadcasting Infrastructure Providers,” urged the government to push for digital radio receiver availability in mobile phones and cars, and recommended the constitution of a high-level steering committee with stakeholders from government, broadcasters, device makers, and technology providers.

While setting a 15-year authorization period, TRAI has retained the gross revenue definition of Phase-III FM guidelines, with authorization fees pegged at 4% of adjusted gross revenue (AGR) for most cities and 2% in border and hilly areas for the first three years.

Digital broadcasting, TRAI noted, will not only enhance audio quality but also provide space for value-added services and multiple channels on a single frequency, offering new opportunities for broadcasters and a richer listening experience for audiences.