India Celebrates Milestone with 10th National Community Radio Awards and Launch of 500th Community Radio Station

Aizawl: In a significant stride towards strengthening community media, Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw today announced the winners of the 10th National Community Radio Awards. The event also marked the inauguration of India’s 500th Community Radio Station, ‘Apna Radio 90.0 FM’, at the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Aizawl, Mizoram. The ceremony was graced by Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan and Chief Minister of Mizoram Lalduhoma.

Shri Vaishnaw highlighted the transformative impact that ‘Apna Radio’ is expected to have on the local community, particularly in the rural areas of Mizoram. He emphasized that the launch aligns with the Government’s Act East policy, aimed at fostering regional development and connectivity.

During the event, the Minister also informed the Chief Minister of Mizoram about the substantial allocation in the Union Budget under the railway budget for the North East region, which is poised to improve railway connectivity in Mizoram, fulfilling a long-standing aspiration of the state.

Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma praised the initiative, noting that ‘Apna Radio’ at IIMC Aizawl would play a crucial role in enhancing communication within the state. Given Mizoram’s predominantly agrarian economy, the station is expected to be particularly beneficial for the farming community, providing vital information such as weather updates, government schemes, and agricultural news. He lauded the Ministry of I&B and all involved stakeholders for their commitment to making the project a reality.

Union Minister of State Dr. L. Murugan underscored the socially beneficial nature of community radio stations, contrasting them with commercial private radio channels. He pointed out that community radio stations are established with a mission to provide last-mile information communication, which becomes especially crucial during natural disasters.

Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, emphasized the pivotal role community radio stations play in disseminating crucial information on agriculture, government welfare schemes, and weather updates. He highlighted the unique platform these stations provide for marginalized voices, offering content in local dialects and regional languages, thus ensuring inclusivity.

Vice Chancellor of IIMC Dr. Anupama Bhatnagar celebrated the inauguration of ‘Apna Radio 90.0 FM’ as a landmark event in Mizoram’s history. She expressed optimism that the station would serve as a medium for dialogue, cultural exchange, and citizen empowerment, thereby bringing communities together.

The event signifies a significant milestone in India’s community radio journey, reflecting the government’s commitment to fostering grassroots communication and regional development.