Today is World Radio Day. It is a day to remember the unique power of radio which touches lives and brings people together from every corner of the globe. The theme of this year’s World Radio Day is Radio and Sports to promote the inseparable relationship between sports and gender, as well as how improved gender equality in sports broadcasting can lead to greater freedom of expression for all.
Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu greeted all radio listeners on World Radio Day. He said, radio is the cheapest and powerful mass medium reaching the widest audience. He said, this year’s theme of ‘ Radio and Sports’ is indeed most appropriate as it seeks to celebrate traditional and grassroots sports. He expressed happiness that 28 lakh people tune in to All India Radio’s show dedicated to soldiers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has greeted all those associated with the world of radio, which includes those working in the industry and the listeners. In a tweet, Mr Modi hoped that the medium always remain a focal point of learning, discovering, entertaining and growing together. He said, radio brings people closer and he is continuously experiencing it through Mann Ki Baat.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani has conveyed greetings on World Radio Day. In a tweet, Ms Irani said, one of the most powerful mode of communication, Radio has touched people’s lives in more ways than one. She said, whether it be listening to Prime Minister’s Mann ki Baat or songs on the go – Radio brings colours of life to the fore through the power of voice and sound.
Sports Minister and Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Col Rajyavardhan Rathore called upon people to come together to celebrate the special theme Radio and Sports. In a tweet, he said, radio and sports are a strong, robust combination- and both are social unifiers and gives people boundless joy.
The World Radio Day was proclaimed on 3rd November 2011 by UNESCO’s 36th General Conference. The day was first celebrated in 2012. It was subsequently adopted as an International Day by the United Nations General Assembly On this day every year , UNESCO celebrates World Radio Day by planning activities with broadcasters, organizations and communities around the world.
The day provides an opportunity to honour how radio is uniquely positioned to bring communities together and promote positive dialogue for change. During the time of disaster like earthquake, radio plays and important role in disseminating information and bringing communities together.