On the occasion of World Radio Day, a national-level special programme is being jointly organised today in Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, by Akashvani and UNESCO. The programme was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Vishnu Deo Sai.
The theme of this year’s World Radio Day is “Radio and Artificial Intelligence.” Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that Akashvani is a powerful medium for disseminating information, education and healthy entertainment. He said it has a special role for rural areas and farmers. Mr Sai noted that amid intense competition among various platforms to deliver news at a fast pace, Akashvani has carved a distinct identity by upholding its tradition of providing credible, balanced and public-oriented information.
He emphasised the need to deliberate on how Artificial Intelligence can be utilised to make radio more people-centric and useful. The Chief Minister said that Akashvani is expanding its FM coverage in Chhattisgarh through the installation of new FM transmitters and the upgradation of some existing ones. With this expansion, Akashvani’s reach will extend to nearly 95 per cent of the state’s population.
Speaking on the occasion, UNESCO’s Regional Adviser for Communication and Information, Hazzaz Male, said that radio has an unmatched capacity to reach the widest audience. She said it amplifies humanity in all its diversity. Ms Male added that radio continues to remain the most trusted medium of communication. She observed that Artificial Intelligence can be used in several ways to make radio more effective and relevant.
Earlier, delivering the welcome address, Director General of Akashvani, Rajiv Jain, said that radio is not merely a medium of communication, but has played a significant role in the holistic development of society. He said Akashvani has not only preserved the country’s rich cultural heritage, but has also connected all sections of society with the nation’s social and economic progress.
Mr Jain said that through 23 languages and 182 dialects, Akashvani has reached remote corners of the country and endeavoured to connect local communities with the mainstream. He added that with changing technology, Akashvani has also undertaken several transformations and is striving to use Artificial Intelligence in a manner that sustains its credibility and its close bond with listeners.
During the programme, the next six musical renditions from Akashvani’s special commemorative series titled “Swadhinata Ka Jayghosh – Vande Mataram: Bharat Ki Sanskritik Dharohar – A Musical Journey” were digitally released to mark 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram. An exhibition showcasing the developmental journey of radio has also been organised on the occasion. The programme includes audio-visual presentations, discussions, expert panel deliberations and various thematic sessions. Cultural performances are also being presented as part of the celebrations.
