Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, recently launched India’s 500th community radio station, ‘Apna Radio 90.0 FM’, in Aizawl. At the same time, he announced the winners of the 10th National Community Radio Awards. This event shows that the government is serious about using media to get more people involved in their communities.
Significance of Community Radio
Community radio gives people in the area a chance to be heard and allows people at the local level to communicate. It encourages participation in politics, artistic expression, and social change, which makes it an important part of the media landscape. The launch of Apna Radio is in line with the government’s Act East strategy, which aims to improve community welfare and connectivity, especially in India’s North East. It shows a dedication to making local problems and stories heard.
Awards Overview
The National Community Radio Awards recognize outstanding contributions by stations across various categories, highlighting innovation, cultural promotion, and sustainability.
Award Categories
- Thematic Award: Celebrating specific impactful themes.
- Most Innovative Community Engagement Award: Creativity in audience participation.
- Promoting Local Culture Award: Highlighting local traditions and culture.
- Sustainability Model Award: Encouraging sustainable practices in radio operation.
Award Winners
Thematic Award:
- 1st: Radio Mayur, Bihar (Tech Sakhi)
- 2nd: Radio Kochi, Kerala (Nirangal)
- 3rd: Hello Doon, Uttarakhand (Meri Baat)
Most Innovative Community Engagement Award
- 1st: Yerlawani Sangli, Maharashtra (Kahani Sunandachi)
- 2nd: Vaylaga Vanoli, Tamil Nadu (Let’s Build a New Norm)
- 3rd: Salaam Namaste, Uttar Pradesh (Maid Didi)
Promoting Local Culture Award:
- 1st: Radio Brahmaputra, Assam (Igarekun)
- 2nd: Radio Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu (En Makkaludan Oru Payanam)
- 3rd: Radio Active, Bihar (Ang Pradesh ki Adbut Dharohar)
Sustainability Model Award
- 1st: Radio Benziger, Kerala
- 2nd: Radio Namaskar, Odisha
- 3rd: Radio Antarwani, Karnataka
