E-auction for first batch of FM radio ends; covers 135 channels in 69 cities

The e-auction of the first batch of private FM radio for 135 channels in 69 cities in phase-II ended on Wednesday with the completion of the frequency allocation stage.

The first stage — the channel allocation stage — which ended on Tuesday after about 125 rounds of bidding may fetch the government ₹1,157 crore for 97 channels in 56 cities.

During the frequency allocation stage, the provisional winning bidders were allowed to select the FM frequency for the winning channel from the frequencies identified in the respective city. The Information & Broadcasting Ministry is expected to notify the winners soon after certain legalities are completed, an official said.