Tuning into news

Allow news on private FM radio, with effective self-regulation

The recommendation of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) to allow news bulletins on private FM radio is a forward-looking move in serving the interests of the people. With many of the 388 operational private FM radio channels having the reach to rural and remote areas, such a step would ensure a medium for communication and establish strong connections in local languages. Besides regular bulletins capturing current affairs and infotainment, private FM radio could act as a tool in disaster management through news capsules when other mediums of information dissemination, such as the internet, phone connectivity, and satellite television,