Community radio stations can't air political programmes, says I&B ministry

The Community Radio stations would not be allowed to broadcast any progammes, which relate to news and current affairs or otherwise political in nature but they can use All India Radio content, which will be provided without any charges.

However, information pertaining to information about sporting events excluding live coverage (except those of local nature), traffic and Weather, local cultural events, results, admissions, career, employment opportunities or public announcements would not be considered news.

These are some of the components of an order issued by the I&B ministry which adds new clauses in the guidelines for Community Radio.

In addition, limited advertising and announcements relating to local events, local businesses and services and employment opportunities have been allowed.

The maximum duration of such limited advertising will be restricted to seven minutes per hour of broadcast.