Anushree Bhattacharya
The United Nation established UN Radio, which became an official international broadcasting service in 1946 with the goal of promoting international collaboration, freedom of speech and peace during World War II. Then, in 2011 UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) decided to mark the date February 13 on the calendar as the “World Radio Day” to honour the esteem power of radio that once connected people and shaped communities and spread the message of peace and unity across the globe.
Two years later in 2013, the United Nations General Assembly approved it and endorsed it as an international day.
Theme for the year 2025
The theme of world radio day for 2025 is Radio and Climate Change: A powerful tool for climate action. This theme was chosen due to the present situation of the environment on the earth is tough for everyone. And radio promises to be a vital medium for awaring, educating, and inspiring people collectively. Radio is the most accessible and acceptable way of communicating with the people, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
In 2025, Radio’s role is crucial in tackling the climatic changes, offering a platform to promote environmental sustainability and encourage the citizens towards taking sustainable actions to make this earth our home. Whether it’s through community broadcasting stations, national or international broadcasting channels, every station broadcasts with the same motto to bring people together to protect our planet.
Traces the history
The radio was invented in the late 19th century for accessing the news during the world wars and consequently boosted its popularity across the world. With the emergence of internet radio, podcasts, smartphones and new technologies, radio adapts people’s new lifestyles and behaviors and continues to exist more strongly on a global level.
Radio is not only a device in the house for the 80s & 90s kids, it’s a pure emotion. The essence of nostalgia that the internet radio era is unable to replicate. The memories where after school, kids would rush home to listen to their favourite show. Families gathered everyday around the dinner table to listen to their favourite talk shows, music, and cricket commentary, especially during world cup matches, people used to gather in someone’s place who had this miraculous device and enjoy the match with friends and their loved ones. Gradually, it became the primary source of news, entertainment, and companionship at that time, especially for women as the men and kids of the family went for their respective work and the women were left alone at home so the radio became their company and rescued them from being bored alone at home.
Radio Stations in India
As of the recent data, AIR (All India Radio) is one of the largest broadcasting organizations in the world in terms of number of languages of broadcast. AIR service comprises 591 broadcasting centres across the country, covering over 90% of the country’s area and 98% of the population. It broadcasts in 23 different languages and 179 dialects. AIR itself has 625 FM channels in service around the country. According to a report of June 2024, India has 388 private stations and 481 community radio stations (for a specific community only).
Radio and GenZ
Today, Internet radio and podcasts are the new-age versions of storytelling and audio entertainment. They are convenient, diverse, and available at our fingertips. But even with all these advancements, the nostalgia of the old radio always lingers. Unfortunately, this internet generation doesn’t get the experience of joy and struggles that our parents did. That crackling sound, waiting for their favorite radio show, dedicating songs for their lovers, the unpredictability of live shows, or adjusting the antenna for better reception, the warmth of human connection can’t be replaced.
Impact of New Media on Radio
Digital Broadcasting- Traditional radio stations have expanded themselves to digital platforms and started offering live streaming on websites and mobile apps like Spotify, JioSaavan, and so on.
Podcasting Revolution- New media has introduced the concept of podcasts, an audio format that runs completely based on demands of users. Many radio stations now offer their shows as podcasts, making content accessible and allowing users to listen anytime and anywhere.
Social Media Integration – Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram help radio stations to engage with their audience, conduct surveys, and promote programs, to enhance their interactivity.
Community and Independent Radio Growth- One of the best facilities of new media is it has lowered entry barriers, allowing independent radio stations and community broadcasters to thrive and survive online.
Radio and Future Trends
Competition from Streaming Services- Online platforms like Spotify, YouTube Music, and Apple Podcasts compete with traditional radio for audience attention.
Technological Adaptation- Radio must continue using AI for interactive content, and broadcasting stations must have smart speakers to give competition to the technology.
Conclusion
Moving forward with new technology is the new trend and essential too, but remembering and honoring the medium that shaped our past is just as important. After all, radio laid the foundation for today’s digital audio revolution.
(The author is a Mass Communication Student at Central University of Jammu)
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