The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has invited (pdf) applications for the e-auction of the first batch of Phase III FM Radio channels. This first batch of Phase III auctions comprises of 135 FM radio channels across 69 cities. Tentative timeline: Bidders will have to procure Class-III Digital Signature Certificate(s) (DSC) for signing and encryption issued by any valid Certifying Authority (approved by Controller of Certifying Authorities) in India, which is mandatory for accessing the platform the auction will be carried out on, Electronic Auction System (EAS). The entire auction process will carried out in four stages: Stage I: Invitation stage wherein prospective bidders submit their applications. Stage II: Screening of applications, publication of ownership details and pre-qualification test. Stage III: Actual bidding for specific channels in different cities. This will be further broken into two stages - Channel allocation stage and Frequency allocation stage. In the first stage winning bidders FM channels in each city will be determined, while in the second stage specific frequencies for each channel will be identified. More on this here. Stage IV: This is the grant stage wherein payment of winning bid amount is made and Letter of Intent (LOI) subject to fulfillment of relevant conditions is issued. Pre-qualification process This is expected to be completed by April 17, 2015, as per the tentative timeline released by the Ministry. - Applicants need to pay application fee (Rs 25,000), provide provision of information, the required certification & undertakings and pay the Earnest Money Deposit (EMD). - Bidders for a…
