The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released its recommendations on “Issues related to Low Power Small Range FM Radio Broadcasting.” These recommendations come in response to a request from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to explore the introduction of new service providers for services like drive-in theaters.
Low power small range FM broadcasting is a highly efficient method for transmitting movie audio within drive-in theater settings. This technology can also be applied to various other scenarios, including hospital radio services, amusement parks, business premises, residential complexes, small communities, and local event commentary.
TRAI initiated a consultation process on this matter, seeking input from stakeholders through a consultation paper issued on April 17, 2023. After receiving comments and counter-comments, and conducting an Open House Discussion in July 2023, TRAI has finalized its recommendations. Key points of the recommendations include:
- Introduction of a new category of service provider for “Low Power Small Range FM Radio Broadcasting.”
- License/registration/authorization to be granted through a simple online application process.
- Approval by the Telecom Engineering Centre (TEC) for transmitting equipment.
- Eligibility criteria for entities holding licenses/registrations/authorizations.
- Permission periods ranging from up to thirty days to up to five years.
- No application/entry fees.
- License/Permission/Authorization fees of Rs. 1000/- for up to thirty days and Rs. 10,000/- per annum for five years.
- Frequency allocation and transmission technology flexibility.
- Maximum permissible transmission range of 500 meters.
- Location-specific frequency assignment based on geographical coordinates.
- Maximum permissible transmission power of 1 watt.
These recommendations aim to facilitate low power small range FM radio broadcasting and provide opportunities for innovative services in various sectors. The full text of the recommendations is available on TRAI’s website www.trai.gov.in. For further information, please contact Shri Anil Kumar Bhardwaj, Director General TRAI CSR and Advisor (B&CS) at Tel. No. +91-11-23237922.
