India Celebrates the Inauguration of its 500th Community Radio Station

Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated India's 500th community radio station, Apna Radio FM in Aizawl. This milestone aligns with the government's 'Act East' policy and was marked by the announcement of the 10th National Community Radio Awards highlighting significant contributions in thematic, innovative engagement, local culture promotion, and sustainability model categories.

On Thursday, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw proudly inaugurated India's 500th community radio station, Apna Radio FM, based in Aizawl. The launch represents a pivotal achievement in the government's 'Act East' policy.

Run by the Indian Institute of Mass Communication in Aizawl, the station is expected to bring substantial changes to the lives of local residents. The I&B Minister also announced the winners of the 10th National Community Radio Awards, with various categories highlighting excellence in thematic programming, community engagement, and sustainability.

Key winners included Radio Mayur, Radio Kochi, and Hello Doon for thematic content, while Yerlawani Sangli, Vaylaga Vanoli, and Salaam Namaste Noida were recognized for innovative community efforts. Promoting local culture awards went to Radio Brahmaputra, Radio Kotagiri, and Radio Active, with sustainability honors awarded to Radio Benziger, Radio Namaskar, and Radio Antarwani. I&B Secretary Sanjay Jaju emphasized the vital role of community radio stations in disseminating crucial information to the public, including agricultural updates and government schemes.