FM spread hits radio vocal chord

Ranchi, June 10: Prasar Bharati’s FM plans in the state might be hampered by the dearth of Radio Jockeys but that has stopped the private players from going full steam ahead.

The FM project was started a year and half ago. As per the project, more than 300 FM stations are likely to be started in the country. In Jharkhand, the channels would be established in Ranchi, Jamshedpur and Dhanbad.

But the lack of availability of trained RJs is a problem. “It’s likely that appointment of RJs is the major bottleneck in starting FM stations in Ranchi, Jamshedpur and Dhanbad,” said a senior AIR official. “Many parties interested in starting the stations are hoping to rope in radio announcers as RJs. But it all depends on the parties concerned.”

However, a Noida-based company, BAG Sons, seems to have found a solution. They are appointing RJs from their mass communication institute for its Radio Dhamal, set to begin by October.

Requesting anonymity, a Ranchi-based partner of the company said: “Some RJ’s have been appointed and the selection is on.”

Work is also on to construct the channel’s studio at the second floor of Ratan Lal Complex, opposite Akashvani, on Ratu Road. The FM station, being launched under the banner of BAG Infotainment, would be among the 17 the company has planned.

Apart from Radio Dhamal, 92.7 Big FM and Red FM are also eyeing the market.

Referring to the other players on the field, AIR assistant engineer P.N. Tiwary said four parties have been roped in and they would construct studios in the town.

“FM transmitter will be installed atop the Ranchi Doordarshan studio. Talks are on to establish three FM studios at AIR, Ranchi, but nothing has been finalised. The transmitters would be provided by Parsar Bharti,” he added.

The Prasar Bharti ventures might take some time, though. The FM station is AIR’s dream project, said officials. But their hands are tied, as they cannot re-deploy the regular staff as RJs “Then our regular programme would be affected,” an official said explaining the situation.

In Lucknow, he added, RJs are being appointed on contract. “Let’s see how things go. It is also a possibility that the FM stations might start in two months.”

With the profitability margins looking high, private players are most likely to set shop faster.

In 2006, AIR had roped in advertising business of Rs 505 crore through its radio broadcast, said sources. With such business waiting to be tapped, private players could have a profitable market in Jharkhand.

When the tender calling for bids to start FM stations across the country was floated a year and half ago, around 15 bidders had come forward.

Their applications were later verified and cleared by the home department.

http://www.telegraphindia.com/1070611/asp/jamshedpur/story_7906242.asp