I&B Ministry warns FM Radio Stations of penalties for violating public announcement norms

I&B Ministry warns FM Radio Stations of penalties for violating public announcement norms

The information and broadcasting ministry (I&B ministry) has issued warnings for FM radio stations to restrain them from violating the terms of the agreement to broadcast public interest announcements for a maximum of one hour per day, failure to which would lead to severe penalties.

In accordance with the agreement, he complies are stipulated to broadcast public interest announcements as may be required by central or state governments "for a maximum of one hour per day" at suitable time slots "interspersed during that day". In an advisory issued on June 6, the ministry reminded the companies with which it has signed agreements to "establish, maintain and operate FM radio broadcasting channels".

"In case the total demand of the central government and the state government exceeds one hour per day, the concerned state government shall be eligible for announcements covering only the period remaining after meeting the demand of the central government," the advisory adds, and has asked FM channels to "strictly adhere to the aforementioned terms and conditions of permission".

The advisory warns, If FM stations violate "any of the terms and conditions of permission", the government "shall have the right to impose penalties".

Previously, the I&B ministry had warned FM radio channels against airing "vulgar and objectionable content" on the grounds that "the language used by many radio jockeys is indecent, dual meaning and offensive".