Community Radio is one of the most vibrant and dynamic means of participatory communication. Community engagement and empowerment is critical for the growth and development of any country and its people. The government also has a key role to play in supporting community empowerment and bring about growth for achieving the development goals.

Today, India has 126 operational Community Radio Stations spread out in various parts of the country. Around 300 more Community Radio Stations are in the process of being set up. Given the vast landscape, diverse culture and ethnicity, India has an excellent potential to set up thousands of Community Radio Stations to reach out to every marginalized community. Towards achieving this, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has been taking several initiatives in partnership with stakeholders to strengthen this dynamic movement in India.

The process of permission to set up Community Radio Stations has been fast-tracked and more transparency and accountability has been brought in.  Awareness workshops are also being organised throughout the country to encourage more and more grossroots organisations to start Community Radio Stations. A facilitation centre has started functioning in the Ministry to answer queries and provide more information to people about Community Radio in India. 

The Second National Community Radio Sammelan is going to be held from 18-20 February 2012 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. This Sammelan will bring together more than 150 people from all walks of life who are connected with Community Radio Movement in the country.  I am hopeful that in the coming years, Community Radio will break new ground and strengthen the democratic fabric of our country.