Radio powerful medium for change: Stories of changes shared at ‘Radio Charcha’ by UNICEF

Senior Correspondent

NewsBits.in

BHOPAL: On the eve of World Radio Day which falls on February 13, a ‘Radio Charcha’ (discussion session) was organised by All India Radio (AIR), Bhopal and UNICEF at UNICEF Office in Bhopal.

Around 40 radio professionals participated in the same from All India Radio, Radio Mirchi, Radio Azad Hind, Radio LakeCity, and other outlets. They shared the stories of change created by radio as a mass medium.

Madhya Pradesh minister for cooperation, sports and youth welfare Vishwas Sarang was also present UNICEF Office and speaking to the radio professionals said that radio is a powerful medium which is and can bring a change. “It can help disseminate key messages for climate change and Mission Life,” he said.

He also spoke on efforts which can be taken to make a change in context of environment and climate change. He appreciated UNICEF for mobilising the radio professionals for marking the day.

Anil Gulati, Officer in Charge, UNICEF, Madhya Pradesh welcomed the Minister at UNICEF Office and spoke on the efforts of radio to bring visibility on children issues and is still a credible source of information.

He spoke on how radio had helped raise visibility on issues of immunization, education, breastfeeding, child rights and climate change.

Rajesh Bhatt, Programming Head, AIR Bhopal shared stories and how radio has contributed to the efforts of the state government on environment, child rights and with UNICEF is helping to create awareness. 

A story wherein a climate champion got influenced by listening to a programme of All India Radio and took up the cause of environment was shared in the meeting by Anamika of AIR. 

Dr Prashanth Kumar, Health Specialist, UNICEF and Narendra Singh Chouhan, WASH Officer made a presentation on climate change and human health, role of radio in creating awareness and steps one can make in lifestyle to contribute as climate action. They both stressed that every individual action counts. 

Radio is a theatre of mind, said Pinky Tiwari, radio professional. RJs are the most dependable medium, said many participants and shared the stories of change it is bringing in the lives of people, including children and women.

It can help kill misinformation with right information, added Dr Debarati Dhar, Head of Department of Mass Journalism of Jagran LakeCity University (JLU). 

The meet also had anchors of various programmes of AIR, Bhopal, Dr Sanyukta K Karve from Journalism and Mass Communication Department of JLU along with officials of UNICEF and other radio professionals.