The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has announced that a Mock Auction will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025, beginning at 0930 hours, as part of the preparatory steps for the upcoming Private FM Radio Phase III Batch III e-auctions. 

The auction process is being conducted as per the Notice Inviting Applications (NIA) dated October 14, 2024, and is a crucial step for familiarising potential bidders with the rules, procedures, and digital bidding environment that will be followed during the live e-auction.

As per an official MIB press note, this mock session aims to provide all shortlisted bidders with practical exposure to the bidding methodology and Auction Rules, ensuring they are adequately prepared and confident before the actual auction goes live. It’s also an opportunity for stakeholders to test their system setups and clear any technical hurdles ahead of time.

The Ministry has urged all participating bidders to configure their systems in advance, ensuring they meet the platform’s technical requirements and avoid last-minute glitches. This includes verifying internet connectivity, browser compatibility, system security settings, and user authentication protocols. MIB has also advised participants to reach out for technical assistance well before the mock session, should they encounter any issues.

The Phase III Batch III auction is a continuation of the government’s initiative to further liberalise and expand the private FM broadcasting space in India, offering new opportunities in unserved and underserved cities. The upcoming batch is expected to see participation from both legacy broadcasters and new entrants eager to tap into India’s growing radio listenership.

The MIB is expected to release further details, including timelines and documentation requirements, in the days leading up to the final auction window. With the mock auction now scheduled, the process enters a crucial phase, setting the stage for a transparent and technology-driven bidding exercise.

For bidders, this mock drill will serve as a crucial rehearsal before they enter the high-stakes live auction environment. The Ministry has reiterated that active participation in the mock session is strongly recommended to ensure smooth proceedings in the actual bidding round.

The auction is part of India’s broader digital governance and media outreach strategy, aimed at democratising access to FM radio services across geographies, enhancing media plurality, and fostering healthy competition within the broadcasting sector.