The ministry has also relaxed norms for empanelling newspapers published in the northeastern states and the border areas.

This apart, Rs.87.95 crore has been allocated during fiscal 2009-10 for the North East Special Package, the statement said, adding: 'An amount of Rs.37.00 crore is to be provided as grants-in-aid and an amount of Rs.50.95 crore as loan to Prasar Bharati for improving radio and television facility in the North East.'