Overview

• TRAI proposed auctioning two new spot frequencies in each of 13 cities, covering the four metros and nine A‑category markets as the first rollout phase.
• City‑wise reserve prices were set, led by Mumbai at Rs 194.08 crore and Delhi at Rs 177.63 crore, with Chennai and Kolkata at Rs 146.68 crore and Rs 79.96 crore respectively.
• The policy introduces simulcast operations that allow one analogue, three digital and one data channel on a single assigned frequency.
• Existing FM broadcasters may migrate by paying the gap between the auction price and their remaining entry fee, with six months to opt in and two years to start services or risk withdrawal.
• TRAI urged a single digital technology in VHF Band II, proposed a new infrastructure‑provider authorisation with Prasar Bharati leasing assets at concessional rates, and recommended fees based on 4% of AGR alongside a 40% city market‑share cap while leaving the FM sunset date undecided.