The Indian government’s ministerial group on FM radio phase-III has finalised an e-auction model for the roll out of more FM commercial licences in India. When the process is finalised 700 radio stations will be on air in India.

The ministers decided against a conventional open auction model and instead chose the e-auction method.

Over 200 private FM radio stations are already in operation since new licences were offered five years ago and this third phase is expected to bring the number up to 700. The third phase will focus on smaller cities and towns.