Lucknow, May 09: Uttar Pradesh is set for an FM radio revolution with the government authorising educational institutions, including universities and residential schools recognised by the government, to set up their own frequency modulation radio stations. The decision was taken after receiving a direction from the Centre which has already approved a scheme to grant licenses for setting up FM radio stations, an official release said here today. It said a letter from Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting instructed that any eligible institution or organisation desirous of setting up community radio broadcasting service may apply to the ministry. The ministry would refer eligible cases to the ministries of home affairs, defence, human resource development and external affairs and letter of intent or license would be issued only after getting clearances from them, it said. The licencees gave to furnish a bank guarantee for Rs 50,000 which would be forfeited if they failed to commission services within the stipulated period.

The release said licence would be granted for 50 watt stations.

It specified that only programmes on subjects relating to health, education, environment, agriculture, rural and community development with focus on social, cultural and local issues, but not news, could be broadcast.

The non-transferrable licence would be for a period of three years, the release added.

Bureau Report