Understanding the Urban Bias of FM Radio in India

Assertion (A): FM radio in India is an urban phenomenon.

Reason (R): Lack of advertising revenue is one of the major reasons for the present flux in FM broadcasting in India

(A) Both (A) and (R) are true

(B) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is the correct explanation of (A)

(C) (A) is true, but (R) is false

(D) (A) is false, but (R) is true

Correct Ans: (A)

Explanation:

Let’s begin by examining Assertion (A). FM radio has indeed developed more in urban areas than in rural India. You can observe this clearly by the distribution of private FM stations—almost all operate in cities and towns with higher population density and purchasing power. As a result, we can confidently say that FM radio remains an urban phenomenon, making the assertion true.

Now, turning to Reason (R), we find it also holds true. FM stations rely heavily on advertising revenue to survive. However, advertisers prefer urban markets where they can reach wealthier and more concentrated audiences. Because rural areas lack this appeal, FM broadcasters hesitate to expand into them. Additionally, advertisers often see rural advertising as low-return, so they divert budgets elsewhere.

This situation creates a financial imbalance. Without adequate revenue from ads, private players find it risky and unprofitable to operate in rural spaces. Hence, Reason (R) is also correct.

That said, while both (A) and (R) are true, we must note that (R) does not entirely explain (A). The urban nature of FM radio also stems from infrastructure gaps, lack of policy incentives, and high operational costs in remote areas. So, even though (R) explains a major factor, it doesn’t cover all the reasons.

Therefore, the most accurate answer is option (A) — both the assertion and the reason are true. However, the reason is not the only cause behind the assertion. Other elements also contribute to FM radio’s limited rural presence.

In conclusion, FM radio’s urban dominance in India reflects deeper structural and economic issues, and lack of advertising revenue is certainly one significant cause among many.