The Indian government won’t allow private radio stations to source their news from the Press Trust of India (PTI) after all, reports Business Standard.

The paper says officials told radio networks that All India Radio (AIR) will be sole supplier of news to the industry under Phase III of private radio deregulation.

The government had previously intimated that both AIR and PTI could be news providers as it seeks to ease tough restrictions which prevent the broadcasting of news on private radio.

Phase III, which is likely to take place over the next six months, will allow private FM broadcasters to air bulletins from approved suppliers for the first time.

But this clarification means radio networks will effectively carry the same news as each other and the main public radio broadcaster.

The industry has long complained that the rules are draconian when no restrictions exist for TV, print and online.

Prashant Pandey, Chief Executive of Radio Mirchi told Business Standard: “There is not much value addition in broadcasting AIR news bulletins. Content and execution on private FM channels are distinct from AIR and there is a mismatch. Also, when stations have synergies with publications and news channels, why should they be made to parrot what the state broadcaster is saying?”