13 February 2023, NIICE Commentary 8537
Dr. Aditi Paul

World Radio Day is celebrated annually on February 13th around the world, and it recognizes the significance of radio as a medium of communication, information, and entertainment. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) first proclaimed the day in 2011. It has since been celebrated every year with a different theme to reflect the diverse ways radio has impacted societies worldwide. In India, radio has played a critical role in shaping the country’s history, culture, and society. From the early days of radio broadcasting to the present day, radio has been a powerful tool for disseminating information, promoting education, and connecting communities.

History of Radio in India

Radio broadcasting in India began in 1923, with the first experimental broadcast from the Indian Broadcasting Company in Bombay. In the years that followed, radio broadcasting expanded rapidly, opening stations in different parts of the country. In 1936, All India Radio (AIR) was established as a public service broadcaster, and it has since become a vital part of India’s cultural and social fabric. Radio played a significant role in India’s independence movement during the pre-independence era. It was used for political mobilization and mass communication, with speeches and messages of prominent leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel being broadcast on AIR. In this manner, radio helped create a sense of unity among the masses and played an essential role in mobilizing people for the freedom struggle. After independence, the role of radio expanded to include educational programs, news, and entertainment. AIR has successfully disseminated information on various health, education, agriculture, and women’s issues. It has also promoted Indian culture and languages by broadcasting music, drama, and folk tales from different regions.

Role of Radio in Education and Literacy

Radio has effectively promoted education and literacy in India, particularly in rural areas with limited access to schools and teachers. In 1957, AIR launched the National Programme of Education to provide educational programs to students in schools and colleges across the country. The program included live interactive sessions, lectures, and discussions on various subjects, including science, mathematics, history, and literature. Radio has also played a crucial role in promoting adult literacy and numeracy. In 1975, the National Literacy Mission was launched, and radio was identified as one of the essential tools for sharing information and promoting literacy. Radio programs were developed to teach adults basic literacy and numeracy skills and were broadcast in various languages to reach as many people as possible.

Radio and Disaster Management

Radio has been a vital tool for disaster management and emergency communication in India. Radio stations work closely with local authorities and disaster management agencies to provide timely and accurate information to the public. Radio has played a critical role in disseminating information on relief measures and evacuation procedures during natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and cyclones. For example, during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the radio was crucial in disseminating information about the disaster and providing updates on relief measures. Radio stations offered information on the locations of relief camps and the availability of food, water, and medical supplies. They also aired messages from relatives searching for their loved ones, which helped reunite families.

Radio and the COVID-19

Radio was crucial in disseminating information and creating awareness during COVID-19 in India. Radio programs provided accurate and timely information about the virus, including preventive measures, symptoms, and treatment. The government, various NGOs, and community organizations also used radio to provide information about testing centers, quarantine guidelines, and government relief measures. Radio programs also focused on addressing social stigma related to the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of empathy and solidarity. Additionally, mental health experts were invited to speak on radio programs to address people’s mental health concerns during the pandemic. Radio also played a crucial role in providing entertainment during the pandemic, with various programs focusing on music, comedy, and storytelling to help people cope with the stress of the pandemic.

Radio and Social Inclusion 

Radio has been a critical medium for promoting social inclusion in India, a diverse country in its cultures, languages, and socio-economic backgrounds. Through various community radio stations, government-run All India Radio, and private FM stations, radio has become a vital tool for promoting social cohesion and inclusion. Radio programming in India often covers public interest and social justice issues, including education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. It has been used to promote awareness about various government schemes and policies, reaching out to marginalized and rural populations who may not have access to other forms of media. Radio has effectively reached out to marginalized communities such as farmers, women, and the elderly. It has allowed them to share their stories, opinions, and concerns. It also serves as a medium for promoting civic engagement and political participation, empowering citizens to shape their societies actively.

In India, several radio programs are specifically designed to cater to the needs and interests of farmers. These programs are broadcasted in various languages and aim to provide information and education on agriculture-related topics to farmers across the country. Some of the popular radio programs for farmers in India are a) Krishi Darshan which was broadcasted by the Doordarshan network that provides information on various aspects of agriculture, including new farming techniques, crop management, and animal husbandry, b) Kisan Vani which was broadcasted by All India Radio and provides information on agricultural inputs, market prices, weather forecasts, and new government policies related to agriculture and c) Farm and Home which is broadcasted by Radio Mirchi and covers various topics related to agriculture, including new farming techniques, pest management, and soil health. These programs have helped to bridge the information gap between farmers and agricultural experts, enabling farmers to make informed decisions and improve their crop yields.

With the advent of the internet and social media platforms, the popularity of radio has declined in urban areas. However, it remains a vital source of information and entertainment for rural areas where access to the internet is limited. The government of India has recognized the significance of radio and has taken several measures to promote it. It has launched several community radio stations and introduced new programs to cater to the diverse needs of the people.

Conclusion 

Radio has played a vital role in shaping India’s history, culture, and society. From its early days as a tool for political mobilization to its current position in promoting education, disaster management, and social inclusion, radio has been an essential medium for connecting people and disseminating information. World Radio Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the radio’s significance and celebrate its contribution to society. As technology continues to evolve, radio is adapting to the audience’s changing needs, and it will remain a crucial tool for communication and information dissemination in the future. We should support the continued growth and development of radio in India and celebrate its power to connect and enrich people’s lives across the country.

Dr. Aditi Paul is an Editor at Stan Ventures, Bangalore, India. She was previously associated with NIICE.