Government to expand FM coverage up to 65 per cent: I&B Minister

Jaipur: The coverage of private FM channels in the country will be expanded to 65 per cent in next two years from current level of 42 per cent, Union MoS for Information and Broadcasting Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore today said. The minister also informed that the government is planning to set up a campus of Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) at Jaipur.

Inaugurating an FM transmitter (Amber channel) of Akashwani Jaipur here, Rathore said broadcast from the AIR Jaipur can now be heard up to 50 km range of the city on 101.2 MHZ. "FM transmission is available to about 42 per cent area in the country which will increased to 65 per cent in two years." he said.

"The government is making efforts and FM transmission will be increased in next two years," he said. He also said the government is considering allowing private FM channels to broadcast news. The minister said the government's priority was to conduct transparent auction for the FM radio channels. All India Radio DG F Sheheryar and other senior officers were present on the occasion.