India's FM Radio Industry Seeks Regulatory Reforms Amid Challenges and New Rules
India's FM radio industry is facing challenges due to government restrictions, including bans on private stations broadcasting news and high licence fees. Recently, HT Media surrendered several FM licences, highlighting industry concerns amid competition from digital audio platforms. Key demands include allowing news broadcasts, reducing GST from 18% to 5%, enabling FM receivers on smartphones, and revising licence fee models. Meanwhile, draft Telecommunications Rules, 2026 propose regulatory simplification but raise concerns over increased government oversight and compliance requirements.