Empowering Local Voices: IIMC and MIB Host Community Radio Sammelan (East) in Guwahati
Empowering Local Voices: IIMC and MIB Host Community Radio Sammelan (East) in Guwahati
New Delhi: The two-day Regional Community Radio Sammelan (East) began in Guwahati, jointly organised by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) and the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi. The event, themed “Celebrating 20 Years of Community Radio in India,” brings together more than 65 Community Radio Stations from the eastern and northeastern regions.
In her welcome address, Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur, Vice Chancellor of IIMC, said it was an honour for IIMC to partner with the Ministry for this important gathering. She highlighted the growth of the Community Radio network, with over 550 stations active across India and more coming up in the Northeast. She said Community Radio plays a vital role in gender-sensitive communication, emergency messaging, student involvement, folk culture preservation, and the responsible use of AI. She urged everyone to work together to strengthen community-led development.
Shri L. Madhu Nag, Registrar, IIMC, spoke about India’s radio journey—from mainstream FM to Community Radio as a strong voice for local communities. He emphasised the need for community-led content, capacity building, and financial sustainability for long-term success.
Ms. Shilpa Rao, Director CRS, MIB, explained the goals of the Sammelan and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting Community Radio in the Northeast. Shri Mahendra Meena, Under Secretary, MIB, said CR stations are essential for last-mile communication and ensure accurate information during emergencies.
Convenor Prof. (Dr.) Sangeeta Pranvendra thanked all participants for joining the celebration of two decades of Community Radio.
Day one featured sessions on technical upgrades, gender-based programming, state-level engagement, indigenous language preservation, and best practices for community-based content. The Sammelan serves as a platform to share experiences, discuss challenges, and strengthen the future of grassroots broadcasting.
