A delegation from the Karnataka Community Radio Association (KCRA) has urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to include community radio stations in the State’s official media list and provide access to government advertising support.
The team represented several community radio stations operating across the State, all licensed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and have valid Wireless Operating Licences, met the Chief Minister and submitted a memorandum.
Rashmi Amembal, president of KCRA and station head of Radio Manipal said in a press release, “We are the voice of the grassroots.”
She highlighted the pivotal role of community radios in promoting local languages, arts, culture, and social awareness. “Community radio stations serve marginalised and grassroots communities. Beyond broadcasting, we are deeply involved in community building, from education and health to environment and women’s empowerment,” the release said.
While these stations operate within limited ranges as per regulatory norms, their impact at the community level remains significant, she said in the release. “We urge the State government to revise its advertisement policy and include community radio in the media list, ensuring recognition and sustainability for our efforts,” she added.
Shivashankar, joint director (south zone) of KCRA and representative of Nammadhwani Radio, said more than 530 community radio stations are active across India, working for the holistic community development. “Karnataka must recognise their role and offer necessary policy-level support,” he said.
