The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has announced the e-auction of 730 FM radio channels across 234 uncovered cities as part of the third batch of FM Phase III channels, according to an official release. The e-auctions will follow an ascending format, with the last date for submission of applications set for November 18, 2024. Eligible companies registered under the Companies Act of 2013 or the previous Companies Act of 1956 can bid for the channels. Successful bidders will be granted a 15-year license, effective from the operationalisation date of the channel. Applications must be submitted by the deadline to pre-qualify for the auction. Ownership details of the applicants will be made public after submission, and those who are not disqualified will need to provide an Ownership Compliance Certificate as per the auction timeline. All applications should be sent to the Additional Director at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting by 5:00 PM on November 18. Lat

The Election Commission has officially set November 13 and 20 as the crucial polling dates for Maharashtra and Jharkhand, triggering political momentum across these states. According to Bharti Jain of Times of India, these elections will play a pivotal role in determining the balance of power between the BJP and Congress, with major stakes for both. In Maharashtra, the BJP hopes to continue its dominance, while the Congress, NCP-SP and UBT Sena faction sees this as an opportunity for revival. Hindustan Times' Saurabha Kulshreshtha, Yogesh Naik and Aditi Agarwal reported that ahead of ECI's date announcement, the Maharashtra government has announced over 40 new SOPs and infrastructure projects to appeal to voters. Meanwhile, The Hindu and The Economic Times bureau provided detailed updates on the upcoming Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections. An ET live blog highlighted Chief Election Commissioner’s emphasis on ensuring careful scheduling for these crucial elections, aiming for m

Graham Miles has been named group general manager of Super Radio Network, following the passing of longtime owner Bill Caralis, Radio Today reported.  Miles, who brings over 35 years of experience in the radio industry, previously held senior roles, including general manager at Hot Tomato on the Gold Coast. Operating from the network’s headquarters in Tweed Heads, Miles will work alongside managing directors Despina Priala (née Caralis) and George Caralis to lead Australia’s largest privately-owned radio network, which includes 42 commercial stations. Together, they aim to expand the network's reach in regional New South Wales, Queensland, and Alice Springs. The Caralis heirs are keen to revitalise the network, with plans to introduce a new local breakfast show at Sydney’s 2SM and search for a successor to radio icon John Laws.  

Mark Mariano has officially joined BuzzFeed Australia as a content producer, marking a new chapter in his career.  Mariano shared the news via a LinkedIn post: "I’m so excited to announce that I’ve joined the BuzzFeed Oz team as a Content Producer (screaming, crying, throwing up!!!!).” Known for his love of zillenial memes and internet culture, Mariano humorously added, “I finally get to put my sexy chronically online zillenial meme knowledge to use (thank you, Beyoncé!)” A long-time fan of BuzzFeed, Mariano had previously contributed as a writer there in 2022. Reflecting on his journey, he admitted the path to his dream role wasn’t straightforward, but after exploring various odd jobs and going viral on TikTok, he’s ready for this next step. “Perhaps it was always supposed to be this way,” he noted. Mariano’s experience spans freelance work for SBS Digital Originals, screenwriting for ABC, podcast production for iHeartRadio, and his recent role as Senior Di

6PR, Perth's leading talk radio station, is undergoing significant programming changes as Nine Radio adapts to financial pressures in the local advertising market.  Mumbrella reported that in a memo shared with staff, Nine Radio's managing director, Tom Malone, pointed out that Perth's advertising market has shrunk by 16 per cent over the past five years, coupled with rising operational costs. To address these challenges, Malone announced the departure of two key hosts—afternoon presenter Julie-Ann Sprague and nighttime host Tod Johnston.  In addition, the station's Wide World of Sports program will now air from 6 PM to 8 PM but will maintain a local focus. Tony McManus's show at 9 PM will be broadcast to audiences in both Perth and Melbourne. Oli Peterson will take over the drive slot from 2 PM to 6 PM, with Money News airing from 8 PM to 9 PM before McManus's show.  Reflecting on the changes, Malone said, “This is a sad and tough day for the Afternoon and Nights teams a

Veteran Australian journalist and broadcaster George Negus has died at the age of 82 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease, 9News reported.  His family shared that he "passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones" and extended their gratitude to healthcare workers for their care in his final days. Negus, known for his approachable interview style and dedication to truth-telling, had an illustrious career that began at The Australian and Australian Financial Review. He later became a key figure on ABC's This Day Tonight, a reporter for 60 Minutes, and a co-host on Today Australia. In addition to his journalism work, Negus was celebrated for his contributions to environmental causes and football. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2015 and received the prestigious Walkley Award for Most Outstanding Contribution to Journalism in 2021.  Reflecting on his 57-year career, Negus once remarked in an interview on ‘60 Minutes’ in 2022, "If you think you

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) is facing silence from key industry stakeholders despite repeated requests for feedback on the National Broadcasting Policy (NBP) 2024. This policy, aimed at enhancing content production and distribution across radio, TV, and OTT platforms, is meant to propel the growth of India's broadcasting sector, according to an official press release. Notably, MIB sent out three reminders to stakeholders, including radio stations, television channels, and OTT platforms, but has received minimal response so far. The NBP 2024 envisions fostering a competitive broadcasting ecosystem, improving content quality, and adopting emerging technologies to support India's global positioning in the industry. It also aims to create a level playing field for businesses and strengthen public service broadcasting. Yet, the lack of engagement from industry players is hindering the consultation process. The MIB is keen to gather insights from these stakeholders