Himachal: Workshop highlights power of radio
Himachal Pradesh: A two-day community radio awareness workshop concluded on Thursday in Dharamshala, with over 60 participants from civil society organizations, educational institutions, and Kisan Vigyan Kendras (Farmers’ Science Centers). Organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (Government of India) in collaboration with SMART (Exploring Modern Applications for Real Change), the program aimed to simplify the process of setting up and maintaining community radio stations (CRSs) across India. Inaugurating the workshop, SMART Founder-Director Archana Kapoor described community radio as the only truly hyper-local, inclusive, and participatory medium. Participants shared their expectations—from understanding policy guidelines to practical concerns about sustainability. She said, “CRSs are not just media; they are the lifeline of the community.”
In her keynote address, Shilpa Rao, Director of the Ministry, praised the role of women-led organizations and affirmed the Ministry’s increased subsidies for them. She described community radio as a powerful tool for empowerment and inclusion, especially in disadvantaged areas. Sandeep Parmar, Director of Radio Gunjan, the local partner, reiterated that community radio is by the people, for the people, and of the people; therefore, community radio is more than just a medium—it is a catalyst for empowerment, governance, and inclusive development. Key sessions led by Ministry officials Amit Dwivedi and Vinay Dahiya provided detailed information on policy frameworks and the Community Radio Support Scheme. The interactive format enabled participants to gain regulatory clarity, while discussions also focused on the importance of community ownership and local content creation. A visit to Radio Gunjan provided participants with hands-on experience of community radio technology, while a unique “Power Walk” exercise helped them reconnect with the needs and perspectives of their community.
