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The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the third round of e-auctions for 730 FM radio channels. This move will expand private FM radio to 234 new cities, including many areas that previously had no coverage.

Key Objectives

1. Boost Local Content:
   The move aims to enhance local content in regional languages and dialects, making radio more relevant to local communities.
2. Create Employment Opportunities:
   The expansion is expected to generate new job opportunities, especially in smaller cities and towns.

E-Auction Details

1. Channels Available:
   730 FM channels will be auctioned across these new cities.
2. Reserve Price:
   The estimated reserve price for these channels is ₹787.87 crore.
3. License Fee:
   The annual license fee for FM channels in these 234 cities will be 4% of the gross revenue, excluding Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Socio-Economic Impact of FM Radio Expansion

1. Enhanced Radio Services:
   The expansion will provide access to free-to-air information and entertainment in local dialects and mother tongues, improving the quality of life in smaller cities and towns.
2. Effective Government Communication:
   FM radio will play a crucial role in government communication, particularly in aspirational districts and LWE-affected areas.
3. Women Empowerment:
   The initiative will create opportunities for women to participate as radio jockeys, program producers, and other roles in the radio industry.

The Cabinet's approval of the third batch of e-auctions for private FM radio channels marks a significant step in expanding radio services to underserved areas. By focusing on local content and employment opportunities, this initiative will have a positive socio-economic impact on smaller cities and towns across India.