More cash for Akashvani as Centre works on infrastructure upgrade

The Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L Murugan, recently inaugurated a 10 kW FM transmitter station established by Prasar Bharati at Vidyanagar in Shivamogga, reports a PIB release.

Speaking after the inauguration, Dr. Murugan stated that the transmitter station would help in broadcasting information about government schemes throughout the district.

He said the Orange Economy – as content creation is now called – will see 15,000 Creative Labs in schools and colleges being established across the country, for which budgetary provision has been made.

Highlighting the significance of All India Radio, the Minister said the influence of Akashvani across the country was immense. Before the era of television and social media, Akashvani was a household name.

“Its specialty lies in its localized emphasis. Akashvani is a reliable medium for timely and accurate information during emergency situations like natural disasters. A sum of ₹2500 crore has been earmarked for the development and expansion of such broadcasting media and the creation of creative content. Akashvani is also adopting digital technology, through which further excellence can be seen in sound technology,” he added.

Currently, there are 591 Akashvani stations in the country, spanning across 92 percent of the country’s geographical area and reaching 91 percent of the population.

“It is conducting broadcasting operations in 23 languages, 182 dialects, Medium, Short and Digital wavelengths in urban, rural and border areas. Its news, current affairs, programmes on entertainment, agriculture, youth, sports and science are always special and diverse. Podcast channels named ‘Akashvani Podcast’ and ‘Akashvani Originals’ have also commenced operations. Radio is also playing a special role in community development and 558 Community Radio stations are active in the country,” the Minister said.

Currently, 14 programming and 10 other stations are functioning in Karnataka. The Minister said the Bhadravathi Akashvani station, which has a range of 3500 sq. km., is reaching the people of Shivamogga, Davangere, and parts of Dakshina Kannada.

To strengthen Akashvani in Karnataka, grants have been provided to upgrade the transmitter stations in Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Mysuru and Dharwad and development works will be undertaken according to popular demand, he added.