Budget Wish List - Tarun Katial - COO, BIG 92.7 FM.

Dear Sir,

 

Kindly find below the attached the Pre- Budget reaction - 2009 quote by  from Mr.Tarun Katial – COO, BIG 92.7 FM.

 

Budget Wish-list

Answered by Tarun Katial, COO, BIG 92.7 FM

 

We expect reduction in Service Tax, especially given that the Radio industry is still at its infancy and has great employment and media opportunities in the semi-urban and rural markets.

      In addition, we need a lowering of Income Tax rates to the Radio industry.

a)                         8 year tax holiday to FM Radio Operators. Radio Broadcasting should be removed from the ambit of Service Tax, just like print media.

b)                         Fringe Benefit Tax is a non deductible expense. If a concession in the qualifying rates is provided to radio operators it would really provide a competitive advantage and a boost to the Radio Industry 

c)                         Print media is kept outside the ambit of service tax and the same benefit should be extended to radio as well, if we want to establish a level playing field. If not, the local advantage extended by radio as a medium will diminish. Additionally, Radio Operators are required to pay license fees on 4% of Gross Revenues wherein, Gross Revenues include Service Tax, resulting in double taxation, this needs to reduce. Also to defer payment of the annual revenue sharing licence fee, given the market  

 

Warm Regards ,
S.Preethalakshmi

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