A CSR wish - Transform one village into in an open interactive society
Recently, I saw an advertisement with heading Let the world hear the voices of unheard communities - start a community radio station. First reaction was whether a radio is relevant today when so many alternative and attractive media are available. I recollected the scenes from the film "Lage Raho Munna Bhai" where instant advice is given on a phone-in radio program saving a life. Could it have been more effective on any other media. The power of radio remain unbeatable as the most effective communication media in far flung remote areas including those area where there is no electricity or during natural calamities.On the other side it gives unique opportunity for communities to share their views, showcase their talent. More so for the women and children. It is one of the best media for spreading the awareness about social issues like education, health and hygiene, sanitation, the government programs and schemes. It will also be helpful to business in sharing information about their industry and their CSR activities.
The radio station is to be operated by an NGO. It could be one of the NGO formed by local community or for the local community by the ladies or employees of the business or by the business. The details of the scheme are available at http://www.cronlineindia.net
Please share your views, comments, ideas and experiences.
This brilliant idea will work more if the local community is involved fully.There are cases where the interference of outside organization (even an NGO) does not yield good result. The job of organization like NGO or any Government organization should be to mobilize the people/community in taking up project or ideas (like community radio in this case) and once the people/ community owns the project, the organization should leave.
ReplyDeleteRicha Singh
Young professional @ SERP
I agree Richa that community should be fully involved, in this case for participation as well as creation of radio programs. It will give boost to local culture and talent. special emphasis may be given to women and children. But as per the government policy, the radio station remain the responsibility of the NGO to whom licence is given.
ReplyDeleteDinesh Agrawal
Community Radio has been effectively used by many NGOs in several parts of the country. Two examples that I have seen working well on the ground are the Kutch Mahila Vikas Sanghathan in Kutch, Bhuj and the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme's experience in the tribal belt of South Gujarat. While both NGOs have effectively empowered the community through training and support to create and deliver programmes relevant in the local context in the local dialect, the high costs of buying radio time is the biggest challenge. Sharing stories of such experiences may surely inspire others to take on this highly effective medium of communication.
ReplyDelete