Radio is an effective medium for public awareness and social change: HIRD Director Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan

Kurukshetra, February 13, 2026: Radio is not just a means of entertainment, but also an effective medium for public awareness and social change. Even today, radio is the simplest and most accessible source of reliable information in rural areas. Radio has played a vital role in issues such as disaster management, agriculture, health, and education. These views were shared by Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan, Director of the Haryana Institute of Rural Development (HIRD). He was addressing the Radio Lovers' Meet organized on the occasion of World Radio Day under the joint auspices of the Radio Listeners Club of India and Gurukul Kurukshetra. Held in the auditorium of Gurukul Kurukshetra, the event was attended by radio lovers, presenters, and other dignitaries.

Chief Guest Dr. Chauhan also remembered and paid tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, who gave the historic proclamation "Tum Mujhe Khoon Do Main Tumhe Azadi Dunga" on Azad Hind Radio. He discussed in detail the history of radio in India and its current status.

Rajendra Kumar from All India Radio, Kurukshetra, attended the event as Guest of Honour. Sube Pratap Singh, Principal, Gurukul, Kurukshetra, presided over the event. The program began with the lighting of a lamp and a Saraswati Vandana performance by artists. Bijendra Jaijan, Patron of the Radio Listeners Club of India, welcomed all guests.

Dr. Chauhan shared his childhood connection with radio, explaining that he initially began as a listener and later had the opportunity to work as a presenter during his higher education. He said that in this era of the information revolution, many mediums have come and gone, but radio has continuously evolved over time. Today, through online radio, broadcasts from any corner of the world can be heard anywhere.

HIRD Director, Dr. Chauhan called upon the youth to innovate by integrating the traditional medium of radio with new technology. In the digital age, podcasts, community radio, and online broadcasts can promote positive social dialogue. Radio is a powerful platform to connect ideas and give direction to society.

Guest of Honour, Rajendra Kumar highlighted the technological development and possibilities of AI in radio broadcasting. Presiding over the event, Principal Sube Pratap Singh said that radio is the voice of rural India and its integration with new technology will make it more powerful.

Many listeners and radio presenters including Rajkumar Pujara, Anil Kataria, Satish Miglani, Ravi Kumar Rahul, Somnath Kalia, Mukesh Batta, Pramila Saini, Bharti Jangra, Aarti, Kapil Batra, Shashibala, Saroj Sharma, Anuradha were present on the occasion.