MUMBAI: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of india (Trai) has brought out a Consultation Paper on issues relating to community radio.

The Consultation Paper covers the following issues:

1) The rationale for community radio.
2) The present framework and progress of the scheme.
3) Issues relating to eligibility.
4) Issues relating to the licencing process.
5) Funding of community radio stations.
6) Regulation and monitoring of community radio stations.

As far as the licencing process is concerned, Trai is seeking feedback on issues such as whether the applicants may be given temporary permits to operate for the time taken to grant a regular licence. There is also the issue of whether an independent licensing body should be set up to examine, evaluate and decide on the applications for community radio licence. Trai is also examining as to whether the requirement of furnishing a bank guarantee be done away with.

Trai had previously released a Consultation Paper on
issues relating to the second phase of private FM radio broadcasting on 14 April, 2004. A number of responses had been received in response to that paper relating to issues on the need for expansion of community radio. Therefore, Trai had decided to bring out a Consultation Paper on issues relating to community radio.

Other issues that Trai is seeking consultation on include whether there should be a separate programme code for community radio and whether the ban on broadcast of news and current affairs programmes should continue.

For the the latest consultation paper, Trai has invited comments from the stake holders by 15 September 2004.

For further details visit

www.trai.gov.in/CONSULTATION%20PAPER25AUG.HTM