BHUBANESWAR: As many as 42 community radio stations are currently operating in Odisha. Community radios reach 25 percent of the state’s population, said experts attending a state-level workshop for community radio broadcasters.
The workshop, organised by Young India in collaboration with UNICEF, concluded at Konark in Puri district on Saturday. This five-day programme, which started on August 20, brought together 50 representatives from 25 community radio stations across Odisha.
The objective of the workshop was to empower community radio stations to become agents of social change.Senior communication experts from within and outside the state discussed the crucial role of community radios in promoting social and behavioural changes through effective and audience-centric programmes.
“The MissionCR314 aims to establish community radio stations in every block of Odisha,” said NA Shah Ansari, a senior community media specialist, during the workshop.
In the workshop, participants developed strategies to address various social issues, including child marriage, education, gender equality, health, and nutrition. The workshop emphasised the importance of community radio in amplifying the voices of ordinary people and fostering societal change.
“As community radio continues to grow, it is set to become a powerful tool for transformation across Odisha. This workshop has equipped broadcasters with the necessary skills and knowledge to create impactful content that resonates with their communities,” said Ansari.
Sugata Roy from UNICEF, Yogendra Yadav, and others participated in the event.