Representation to Pr. Advisor (B & CS), TRAI regarding the consultation paper on issues related to digital radio broadcasting

IMI, in its representation, extended its support to the Government of India’s commitment to developing the radio infrastructure in India. IMI stated that the record industry has a huge role in the success of radio broadcasters (and the broadcasters’ soaring revenues), however, the revenues from the broadcast of music for music rights owners are disproportionately low compared to the value of music rights to broadcasters. IMI highlighted the value gap prevalent in the industry, and stressed the need to close it. To close the value gap, IMI suggested that the government’s spectrum license fees should take into account that radio broadcasters are able to fairly remunerate the music owners. IMI elaborated on the licensing of radio stations by the recording industry and problems with the legal framework in India. IMI also discussed the impact of remuneration rights, statutory licensing and Copyright Tribunal rate-setting on the record music industry.

The full representation can be read here.