On April 28, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 91 new 100W FM transmitters across 18 states and two Union Territories, marking a significant step in the expansion of FM services by the All India Radio (AIR). The move is expected to benefit over two crore people, including those living in remote regions, by giving them affordable access to information. In his speech, the Prime Minister emphasized the government’s continuous efforts to democratize technology in the country, ensuring that no Indian feels a scarcity of opportunity.
The Prime Minister talked about the benefits of optical fiber connectivity and the cheapest data cost, which had eased access to information, especially in villages, giving a new push to digital entrepreneurship. Similarly, UPI had helped small businesses and street vendors access banking services.
Mr. Modi also highlighted the emotional connection his generation has with radio and shared his experiences as a radio host, referring to the upcoming 100th episode of his monthly radio program “Mann Ki Baat.” He listed the benefits of FM transmitters, including timely information dissemination, community building, weather updates, and various public awareness programs.
The Prime Minister said that radio, especially FM, had taken on innovative forms through podcasts and online FM, thanks to the digital revolution. The launch of 91 new FM transmitters is in line with the government’s policy of giving preference to the underprivileged, who have been deprived of this facility so far. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that all stakeholders would continue to move forward with this vision, resulting in the strengthening of the country through continuous dialogue.
The Prime Minister’s speech emphasized the dimension of linguistic diversity, with FM transmission being planned in all languages and especially in regions with 27 dialects. He highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen cultural and intellectual connectivity, with initiatives like Swachh Bharat and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao becoming people’s movements through “Mann Ki Baat.”
The expansion of FM radio services and optical fiber networks into villages has led to a reduction in mobile and data costs and has increased access to information, resulting in the emergence of digital entrepreneurs from every corner of the country. The Prime Minister concluded his speech by stressing that the vision and mission of all communication channels, including AIR, are to connect the country and its 140 crore citizens, strengthening the country through continuous dialogue.