I&B Ministry for consensual approach on FDI in print media, TV

With both print and television broadcasters pressing for a hike in FDI limits in newspapers and television channels, top officials in the Ministry for Information and Broadcasting today said no timeframe could be committed for this and suggested a consensual approach on the matter. "Though a large section of broadcasters and print media barons seek enhanced FDI limits in newspapers and television channels, we are trying to discuss the issue and want to arrive at a consensus on it in order to move forward (on the issue)," a top ministry official said here.

The official said though no time frame can be committed on it, the issue is being seriously discussed in the ministry as there is a need to bring unanimity on it. At present, FDI limits in both television channels and newspapers is 26 per cent and newspaper owners and broadcasters are seeking a hike of upto 49 per cent in both the sectors.