Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated 91 FM transmitters in 18 states and two union territories in a move that will significantly boost FM radio connectivity in the border regions and aspirational districts of India. The installation of these new transmitters will further increase coverage by approximately 35,000 sq km, benefiting an additional two crore people who did not previously have access to the medium.
Speaking at the inauguration, Modi highlighted the important role the new transmitters would play in providing timely information, weather forecasts for agriculture, and connecting women’s self-help groups with new markets. He also pointed out how technology had helped radio emerge in a new avatar and had brought new listeners to the medium. The Prime Minister went on to say that the government was constantly working towards the democratisation of technology.
The expansion comes just two days before the landmark 100th episode of Mann ki Baat, the Prime Minister’s monthly radio programme. The new transmitters, which have been installed in 84 districts, will focus on enhancing coverage in Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Ladakh, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The installation of these new transmitters will provide a significant boost to FM radio connectivity in remote and border regions. Many areas of the country have struggled with poor communication networks, and the new transmitters will help to address this issue by enabling people in these regions to access vital information and services. This is especially important in regions that are vulnerable to natural disasters and emergencies, as timely information and updates can make a significant difference in mitigating the impact of such events.
In conclusion, the inauguration of 91 FM transmitters by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a significant step towards boosting FM radio connectivity in India. The move will provide greater access to information and services in remote and border regions, and help to address issues related to poor communication networks. With the new transmitters in place, people in these regions will be better equipped to handle emergencies and natural disasters, and will have greater access to vital information and services that can improve their lives.