TRAI has launched a consultation process inviting comments on facilitating the deployment of digital broadcasting by private FM radio broadcasters. Even as it noted that All India Radio is active in implementation of digital radio in MW and SW bands, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India today noted that there appears to be no initiative in FM radio space either by public or private FM radio broadcasters.
Since FM is primarily used for analogue transmission, it appears as if the frequency allocations under these policy guidelines are only for analogue transmission. Analogue FM technology can provide only one channel per frequency. Therefore, existing FM radio channels provide limited services to their listeners. In addition, analogue radio broadcasting is facing competition from emerging technologies and other platforms like webcasting, podcasting, Internet streaming etc.
In view of this, the TRAI has suo moto issued a consultation paper on issues related to digital radio broadcasting in India. Stakeholders have been asked to respond to the various questions raised by TRAI by 4 September with counter-comments if any by 18 September 2017. Read more.
Click here for consultation paper.
From : DRM India Chapter Noticeboard - July 2017
Forwarded by : Ashok Joshi amjoshi7@gmail.com