India’s first radio monthly
the radio duniya magazine aims to provide a total coverage and analysis of the news, trends and events of the radio industry and facilitate a dialogue between various stakeholders of the industry.
the portal www.radioduniya.in is your one stop destination to know what all is happening in the radio industry in India, and all the recent developments relating to the community radio movement.
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For editorial and advertising opportunities contact: bharti@radioduniya.in G - 4, Sector - 39, NOIDA Uttar Pradesh - 201301, INDIA Phone: +91 120 2502180-85 Mob: +91 - 9818300368 Fax: +91 120 2500060 web: www.radioduniya.in
Let's Walk the Talk! At the outset, we would like to thank the radio industry and the readers of Radio Duniya for their overwhelming response and invaluable suggestions. We are honoured by the manner the industry has welcomed and appreciated us. Understanding the earnest role that radio plays in the development of a society, we present our second issue with a focus on the social responsibility of radio as a mass media. Radio, like any media that influences public opinion, has a socially responsible role to play. Being a live and interactive medium, every radio station has to keep in mind the sensitivities of the public at large. Unlike TV, radio’s reach as well as immediacy creates as many threats as opportunities, thus it is to a great extent the responsibility of a radio station to regulate its own content. Devoting some quality airtime to social messages and being socially proactive is also important. Many private FM channels are trying to spread the message of AIDS awareness in the month of December through various on-air and on-ground programmes, but a lot is still left to be done, since a few days' lip service will not stand the test of time. There has to be a sincere and concerted effort on the part of broadcasters to contribute to the growth and development of society. The power of radio is immense and with great power comes great responsibility. Radio can be used to spread all kinds of messages, but the onus of spreading the right messages and ideas rests with the radio channels. Radio has a social and moral responsibility towards its audiences. By raising issues which are of importance to the people, for example education, poverty, cleanliness, health, awareness of social issues, it can fulfil its role of a responsible media. Since other active media like television and print have their own limitations in terms of reach and accessibility, the easy reach and high usability of radio makes it a perfect medium to spread messages of social, environmental and national importance, to all sections of society. The time has come for the private operators to show how effectively they can explore and exploit the power of radio and tune in to the expectations of the audiences. Now lets walk the talk, and be socially responsible towards the listeners. Radio Duniya, with your continued support and encouragement will carry forward this initiative of portraying the balance between values, community, and the business of entertainment. Let social responsibility and accountability be at the heart of all we do.
Ravi Gupta ravi.gupta@radioduniya.in Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Ravi Gupta President Dr. M P Narayanan Group Directors Maneesh Prasad Sanjay Kumar Sr Manager Sales Bharti Malhotra Email: bharti@radioduniya.in
Research Associates Sanjana Sharma Mohd. Dilshad Design & Development Team Bishwajeet Kumar Singh Chandrakesh Bihari Lal (James) Om Prakash Thakur Subscriptions & Circulation Lipika Dutta Manoj Kumar Prabhat Tripathi
Editorial and Marketing Correspondence: radio duniya G – 4, Sector 39, NOIDA 201301, India Tel: +91-120-2502180-85 Fax: +91-120-2500060 Web: www.radioduniya.in Printed by: Vinayak Print Media, Noida, Gautam Budh Nagar (U.P.) India Email: vinayakprintmedia@gmail.com
It is hoped that Radio Duniya will serve to foster a growing network by keeping the community up-to-date on many activities in this wide and varied field. Your involvement in providing relevant information is essential to the success of this endevour. Radio Duniya does not subscribe to the views expressed in the publication. All views expressed in this issue are those of the contributors. It is not resposible for any loss to anyone due to the information provided.
Radio Duniya is being published by Elets Technomedia pvt ltd. in collaboration with Centre for Science, Development and Media Studies (CSDMS ) © Elets Technomedia Pvt Ltd. (www.elets.in)
knowledge for change
contents
December 2007
29 8
Cover Story
15
News 11,38 Industry Update
32
Radio Meter
Is radio socially progressive?
New Stations
Prashant Gupta
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35
Host
29 32 26
Policy Spread the development message Zohra Chatterji
Kuch aisa karo ki naam to ho Nitin Radio Host, BIG 92.7 FM
Compassion is essential Ginnie Radio Host, Meow 104.8 FM
Training
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35
Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India
Radio buzz revolutionised the radio scene in the region Hardeep Singh Chandpuri, Founder, Director, Academy of Broadcasting
Station Talk Scope of radio is immense Tarun Katial COO, BIG 92.7 FM
Dil se Harrish M Bhatia Business Head, 94.3 MY FM
Community Radio
23 26
44
Book review
46
Giving voice to the community
Other Voices Community Radio Profiles
Congratulations on the launch of Radio Duniya. Big FM wishes you all the very best.
letters
Arjun Singh Baran, Station Director, Big 92.7 FM, Mumbai
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We are enjoying the inaugral issue of Radio Duniya tremendously, which covers the industry well and has helped me keeping in touch with the other stations. I wish Radio Duniya all the best and hope that we have a mutually beneficial relationship in the future. Punit Mathur Station Director, Big 92.7 FM, Delhi
Good presentation!! Very informative inaugural issue. It has so many possibilities. Dolly Ahuja E-Health magazine.
The Radio Duniya magazine is simply superb. Kudos to you and your team. Raja Marthandan Big 92.7 FM, Chennai
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I woul d Duniya like to cong r The fir for launchin atulate the w st issu g an e hole te x e nice la y outin of your ma clusive RAD am of Radio gazine easier g and IO ma g s f i across or us to kno trong conte s really very azine. nt. No w the t h e n w it wi good with at happe Profilin ll b nings g o f R i on . i n while t J radio in e much he arti s in the “HO dustry c specia S l and i le on “COM T TALK” se M n the be c st wish teresting. K UNITY RAD tion is supe eep up rb, es to T IO” is v ea m R th Gaura adio D e good wor ery v k and uniya. Big 92 Anand al l .7 FM, Luckn ow
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Radio Duniya Magazine, G-4 Sector 39, Noida Tel: +91-120-250 2180-87 Fax: +91-120-250200060 www.radioduniya.in
Spread the Development Message
Zohra Chatterji, Joint Secretary, Broadcasting, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Zohra Chatterji from UP cadre 1979 batch, has held numerous important assignments in the state government. She has been Secretary and Director, Industries; Labour Commissioner; Secretary and Director, Tourism and Basic Education. Her last assignment was Principal Secretary, Industries, IT and Electronics, Uttar Pradesh. Currently she is working as Joint Secretary, in-charge of Broadcasting Wing, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. As the Joint Secretary, Broadcasting, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, what are the top priority areas for you as far as Radio is concerned? The first priority is that all the private FM Radio channels allotted to the private broadcasters become functional by the end of this financial year. We have also invited bids for 97 vacant channels of Phase II. The next step will be to come out with a more liberalized Phase-III policy to provide for the growth of the sector and cater to the choices of niche listeners. Also we will see how and in how many phases can FM be extended to other cities. What are your views on the current state of radio industry? The switch over from a fixed revenue regime to a revenue sharing mechanism has been the 8
major cause for the kind of growth that has been witnessed, and it has also increased the profitability of radio channels. The policy of allowing only one channel per city, subject to an overall limit of 15% has also enabled 37 different players to enter and gain experience in the Radio field. The growth of the industry has again created new employment opportunities, particularly in areas which were hitherto not open for the private sector. How do you see the Indian radio industry growing? As per the FICCI, Price Water Coopers projections, the radio industry is projected to grow from the present size of Rs.5 billion to Rs.17 billion by 2011 which implies cumulative annual growth rate of about 28% over the next five years. The Ministry is also promoting community radio as a powerful means of rural empowerment which can give December 2007 | Radio Duniya
voice to the voiceless and spread the development message more effectively. Also under consideration is the satellite radio policy which will enhance listener’s choices manifold. What according to you is the role of AIR in a dynamic radio industry scenario? AIR being a public service broadcaster and the pioneer in radio service, has performed yeoman service in the country. Many of the stars including Lata Mangeshkar have first been AIR artists. With its rich experience, talented staff and wide infrastructure AIR can partner with the private sector to train radio jockeys and assist in the setting up of FM and Community Radio Stations and the generation of content in local dialects. Colocation of FM transmitters with AIR towers has already introduced a synergy. It will also continue to further the objectives of safeguarding the citizen’s right to information, pay special attention to the fields of education, rural development, health, etc. to promote the diversity of culture and languages, sports and games as per its mandate. It would also continue to give adequate coverage to the special needs of the youth, women, weaker and deprived sections of the society, children, minority communities amongst others which may not be served by channels working with a purely commercial objective. Will private FM channels be allowed to air news and current affairs programmes in the near future, as demanded by the industry? The private FM channels have been demanding permission to broadcast news and current affairs programmes. In the absence of a broadcast regulator, it will become extremely difficult to regulate such localized content, hence news and current affairs has not been permitted as yet. However, we are examining the issue in consultation with the industry. Is there a need for a censor board for radio, on the same lines as the regulatory authority for films and television? As of now, the content issues of radio are being directly handled by the Ministry. With the increasing number of players both on the FM Radio as well as on the Community Radio side and their localized nature there is definitely a need to have a separate broadcast regulator with a number of regional offices to ensure a localized presence to be able to regulate the content in a meaningful manner. The proposed Broadcasting Service Regulation Bill, will enable the setting up of such a regulatory body to www.radioduniya.in
“The radio industry is projected to grow from the present size of Rs.5 billion to Rs.17 billions by 2011 which implies cumulative annual growth rate of about 28% over the next five years.” facilitate speedy growth of not only the FM Radio sector but also the Broadcasting sector in future. What are your views on the development of a Content Code for radio broadcasting? As of now both private FM Radio and Community Radio operators are supposed to follow the programme and advertisement code of AIR. Such a code is essential to provide a yardstick for regulating content on the channels. Do you feel the need for convergence of CSC and Radio Stations in India? The concept of community service centres is based on the premise of a commercial venture and it is the individuals who are eligible to set them up. Whereas the guidelines for Community Radio do not provide for licensing to individuals. What can be physically possible is that NGOs can be co-located in proximity to the CSC so as to bring about a synergy between information data bases and communication through radio. With privatization of the air-waves does the Prasar Bharati’s role as a public service broadcaster get redefined? With increasing number of private channels and the race for better TRP ratings based on sensationalism, commercialization, and dramatisation of content, Prasar Bharati’s role as a public broadcaster has become all the more relevant and significant. DD News is still the most popular news channel which delivers un-sensationalized news capsules compressed into fifteen ad-free minutes. Prasar Bharati needs to be strengthened to enable it to better perform the role assigned to it. A GOM is already deliberating on various issues with respect to its funding and staffing pattern to enable it to perform the role expected of it. 9
“There is a target of setting up 4000 community radios. But we can go up to much more than that, since
there is no problem of spectrum for this low range. We would ideally
like every village to be served by a local radio station.” Can you comment on the demand of community radio operators to be recognized as Accredited Media to cover important development related updates and events? The demand has not yet been made to the Ministry. Community Radio is already a recognized media sector, the guidelines for which have been clearly spelt out by the Government. Except for the coverage of news and current affairs which they are not permitted to carry, guidelines emphasize that the programmes should cater to the developmental, agricultural, health, educational, environmental, social welfare, community development and cultural needs of the local community which the Community Radio operator seeks to serve. According to one estimate, Latin America has 6000 community radio stations. What is the figure and target the Ministry has set for India?
should get a license for community radio instead of giving it to newcomers. In order to ensure that the community radio movement in the country grows from strength to strength, there is also a need for capacity building and training for community radio which we are planning to address through IGNOU and registered training institutes of All India Radio. What would be the ratio of community radio to campus radio in the country? I think it may go up to 50:50 or even 60:40. We hope to ensure that campus radio is not used as just a tool for student entertainment but it is linked to a community-based objective. We are going to seek information about the community focus during the process of licensing. The radio station catering to student community would be an additional qualification but not the sole objective. We are also planning to evaluate the 27 licensed radios that are already operational by institutions. We need to know what they are actually doing, how many hours of programming, content, etc. are dedicated to the community and based on that we would issue guidelines to shape the sector further.
“There is a need for capacity building and training for community radio which we are planning to address through IGNOU and registered training institutes of AIR.”
Well, there is a figure of 4000. But we can go up to much more than that, since there is no problem of spectrum for this low range. We would ideally like every village to be served by a local radio station. By when will the Ministry, in your view be able to grant the required licenses? This is just the beginning of community radio in India, and we are already gearing up to something like 10 licenses a month. This is a conservative figure, so in one year there would be about 120 licences. As it will gear up, the numbers will grow, as there will be more people coming to us with presentations. The only reason why we are taking some time in issuing licenses is that there is a possibility of misutilization of license, because people tend to use it like commercial FM. Without paying the license fee for FM. Just a security deposit of rupees 25,000 enables them to get a frequency, which is worth much more otherwise. So we have to screen applications very carefully and we wish that only those who have a track record of working with the community before 10
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
BIG 92.7 FM marks World AIDS Day On the occasion of World AIDS Day, BIG 92.7 FM addressed the burgeoning issue of HIV/ AIDS by living up to its signature brand line of Suno Sunao, Life Banao! In an innovative three-day awareness campaign, a team from BIG 92.7 FM Delhi came together to form the “Topi Brigade” and took to the streets urging Delhites, particularly the youngsters, to ‘Stay (HIV) Negative’. In Mumbai, BIG 92.7 FM touched the lives of AIDS affected kids at Population Services International with model and actress Kim Sharma, singer Parthiv Gohil and his wife Mansi Parekh. In Delhi, the three day long activity was flagged off on November 29, by BIG 92.7 FM Breakfast Jock Sujata and renowned television artiste Rajeev Khandelwaal from PVR Saket. The activity culminated on December 1, World AIDS Day. On a mission to spread awareness on HIV and AIDS, the Topi Brigade distributed condoms and red ribbons among the susceptible target group of 18-35, urging them to stay safe by voicing the campaign statement - ‘Stay Negative’. In Mumbai, Big FM brought out the excitement in the kids at Population Services International and the evening gained momentum with a special Karaoke session. The children were singing, dancing, cheering, enjoying the evening to its fullest with their favourite celebrities. BIG 92.7 FM also gave away lots of goodie bags and prizes. Lauding the initiative, Rajeev Khandelwaal said, “I have been associated with the cause for a very long time and have done several events with institutions involved in fighting AIDS. When BIG 92.7 FM approached me for the event, I was very excited because no one has ever approached AIDS with a different perspective altogether.”
94.3 MY FM takes forward the cause on World AIDS Day 94.3 MY FM, the Bhaskar Group radio station, on the occasion of World AIDS Day, organized a number of on-ground and on-air activities spreading awareness about the fatal disease. The channel ran awareness capsules through out the day to help its listeners acquire more knowledge to fight the disease. The channel also aired sound bytes of celebrities and noted personalities, who work for the cause. In a gesture that showed 94.3 MY FM’s emotional connect with its listeners, the radio channel’s RJs went on the streets and distributed red ribbons in support of the cause. The idea was not just to spread awareness about the cause and precautions of the fatal disease, but to openly stand together with people as a team, against it. 94.3 MY FM organized ‘MY FM, MY MARATHON’, a public involvement activity that had people of all ages participating in full swing in a 10 km long marathon. The activity aimed at bringing people from all ages, genders, castes and religions together to stand as a cohesive force and spread the message against AIDS.
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BIG 92.7 FM campaigns for Udaipur lakes BIG 92.7 FM came forward to protest against the increasing pollution of the lakes in the lake city of Udaipur. This is part of the Station’s endeavor to impact people’s lives positively in everything that they do. To increase awareness among the residents of the City and to seek their support and participation, BIG 92.7 FM’s RJ Ankit spent three long days in a boat in the middle of the famous Fateh Sagar Lake in Udaipur, campaigning against increasing pollution and congestion of the lakes. RJ Ankit’s protest witnessed huge fan following with people coming to visit him through the day and leading into the night. People from across ages and sexes came forward to support RJ Ankit and the noble cause. The campaign began on 23rd November and concluded on 26th November, with huge number of citizens coming together to pledge against the lakes being polluted due to various reasons. Speaking on the occasion, Abhishek Sharma, Station Head – Udaipur, BIG 92.7 FM said, “It is our constant endeavor to offer a wholesome mix of entertainment on air and create a social awareness through responsible on-ground activities. This endeavor by our RJ has witnessed huge success in reaching out to the masses and creating a sense of responsibility. Activities like this has not only made people aware of the increasing pollution but also made each of them responsible of their social responsibility.”
12W2FM S
122 private FM channels on air by March 2008
NE ANNEL CH
As many as 122 FM radio stations, for which agreements have been signed with private broadcasters, are expected to become operational by March next year, the Lok Sabha was informed. Besides, the Government has also invited tenders for allotment of 97 vacant channels, Information and Broadcasting Minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi said in a written reply. At present, there are 144 private FM stations and 168 AIR FM stations, he said.
Radio City enters Limca Book of Records again
It is ‘Whatte Fun’ all the way for Radio City 91.1 FM as the FM station celebrates its second entry in the Limca Book of Records! Lucknow’s favourite breakfast show RJ Vera, host of the power packed ‘Radio City Breakfast Show’ will be featured in the 2008 edition of Limca Book of Records for being the longest serving breakfast show Radio Jockey on any private FM radio station in India. Highly appreciated by the people of Lucknow, RJ Vera has been hosting the breakfast show on Radio City since the FM station’s inception in Lucknow city. For over six years now, she has been jumpstarting Lucknow mornings with the fun, light-hearted breakfast show. Speaking on the occasion, Apurva Purohit, CEO Radio City 91.1FM said, This recognition from the Limca Book of Records goes to celebrate our people and their faith in the robust brand which is Radio City. Being the oldest players in the Indian private FM space, we learnt early on the imperatives of building a professional, people oriented environment - especially one that allows creativity to flourish and where performance is recognized. Our belief in our people is not just restricted to a vision, but we actually walk the talk by investing in them!” A very excited RJ Vera on her entry in Limca Book of Records said, “It is actually a dream come true for me and one of one of the biggest milestones I have achieved so far! I whole heartedly thank Radio City for believing in my capability and giving me a chance to be part of the lives of the people of Lucknow”
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December 2007 | Radio Duniya
Celebrate ‘Goal’ with BIG 92.7 FM and John With the football craze escalating on the youth of the nation, BIG 92.7 FM celebrated the excitement with Bollywood actor John Abraham encouraging the youth to participate in the game. BIG 92.7 FM organised tons of exciting on-ground events to celebrate the spirit of the game. Mini goal posts along with a football were taken to various colleges and multiplexes in the city like RD National College, National College, NK College and Infiniti Mall. Students were asked to score 3 straight goals and the winners walked away with lots of interesting vouchers and movie tickets for the movie ‘Goal’. Some of the lucky listeners had a blast at the meet & greet hosted by BIG 92.7 FM with John Abraham as he interacted with them, signed autographs, played games and gave away movie tickets for ‘Goal’. There were lots of interesting onair content planned as he interacted with listeners. Listeners tuned in to BIG 92.7 FM to listen to interesting tid-bits about the movie, behind the scene action, interactions with John and much more.
Mirchi goes on air from a life size laptop Music beaming was rather different at Radio Mirchi – 98.3 FM station on 23 & 24 November as it was not telecast from an indoor studio b u t from an outdoor studio shaped in the form of a life sized laptop placed at Bandra Linking Road. In view of promoting Microsoft’s anti-piracy campaign and Lenovo’s latest laptop model, Radio Mirchi tied up with the companies and aired shows from the outdoor studio shaped in the form of a life sized 3D model of Lenovo’s latest laptop - 3000Y410. The RJ’s were seated in the live feed studio set up in the 3D laptop model placed 20 feet above the ground that left Mumbaikar’s awestruck. Mirchi fans and enthusiasts visited the studio situated at Bandra linking Road on 23 & 24 November and to catch their favourite RJ’s, chit-chat with them and participate in various games and contests. A few lucky ones got themselves exciting goodies like Lenovo pen drives, gift vouchers, and a Lenovo laptop as a bumper prize. “This is one of the most innovative and unique ways adopted by Radio Mirchi to connect with their listeners. We are very happy to see the city’s overwhelming response to this great mix of music and technology”, said Sujata Bhatt, Station Director Radio Mirchi, Mumbai.
Speaking on the occasion, Arjun Singh Baran, Station Director - Mumbai, BIG 92.7 FM said, “We are very excited about our Station’s latest offerings and it is an initiative aimed at providing wholesome entertainment by way of not only entertaining them but also informing them with a cause, true to our Station’s motto of Suno Sunao, Life Banao! BIG 92.7 FM is glad to have been associated with such eminent actors and it is our constant endeavor to offer properties that will meet listener requirements and will work well on a daily basis, ensuring listener delight.” Rahman performs at Fever bash Music maestro A R Rahman performed live for the first time in New Delhi during the Fever 104 FM musical extravaganza on 17 November 2007. Millions of AR Rahman fans flocked to the Raja Garden venue in West Delhi for the three hour long gig by Rahman and his troupe, comprising of the industry’s finest talent, including Kailash Kher, Hari Haran, Sivamani, Sadhna Sargam, Chitra among others. Fever 104 FM’s Voice Hunt, which had scouted for that special talent who was to share the stage with AR Rahman, finally presented Parul Mishra, the contest winner who enthralled the crowd. Fever’s business head S Keerthivasan said, “We were confident that we would receive an overwhelming response from the city music aficionados. The Fever 104 team has put its heart and soul towards making this Fever 104 - AR Rahman concert happen. Fever 104 FM’s endeavor in delighting its listeners has finally been actualized through this musical treat.”
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Radio City partners Ghulam Ali concert
Virgin and Fever to grow FM base Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, which operates Fever 104 FM along with HT Media in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, is looking to expand its FM radio services to other regions in India. In partnership with HT media, Virgin is committed to open more stations in India. The group is planning to roll out services in all major cities in the country in the next three four years. Virgin Group had entered into FM radio segment with the launch of Fever 104 FM in partnership with its Indian partner in October last year.
Delhi’s Radio City has partnered for the ‘Ustaad Ghulam Ali Melodies across LOC’ concert to be held on 17 November. Organised by Delhi based NGO ‘Mission’, the concert is a fund raiser for the NGO’s campaign for enhancing awareness on HIV/ AIDS. As radio partners, Radio City has launched a contest. The winners of the contest will get entry passes to the live concert. Radio City national head marketing, Rana Barua said, “As a national FM brand, we are known for the melodious adult contemporary music we play. As a conscientious organisation sensitized to needs of the society we live in, we are always looking to create opportunities to actively involve our listeners in contributing to social causes in a memorable manner. Our association with this concert allows us the opportunity to involve our listeners and together celebrate an evening of melodies while promoting this noble social cause.”
“Virgin Radio has brought comprehensive technical expertise to this venture, and HT Media provides the understanding of the local market,” HT Media’s CEO Rajiv Verma said. Red FM case: TDSAT grants I&B more time Telecom Disputes Settlement Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has allowed Ministry of Information and Broadcasting time till 3 January 2008 to reply to a petition challenging a one-week ban imposed by it on Red FM. Stating that the government was still in the process of studying Red FM’s petition, Rakesh Gosain, counsel appearing for I&B ministry, sought some more time. Accepting the request, TDSAT chairman justice, Arun Kumar adjourned the matter till 3 January 2008. Meanwhile, he also made it clear that the FM channel would continue to enjoy the protection granted by the tribunal against the ministry’s order to ban it for one week. In September, I&B ministry had imposed a ban to the FM station after one of the station’s radio jockey made a racist comment. As reported earlier, TDSAT had allowed the interim stay order on banning the station for a week to continue till 13 November, while the ministry could continue to enquire into the matter. RJ Vasanthi to represent India at Salzburg Bangalore based Radio City 91.1 FM’s popular RJ Vasanthi, host of The Radio City Breakfast Show has been chosen to represent India at the Salzburg Global Seminar Young Leader’s Summit in Austria. Nominated by Narayan Murthy, Chairman of the Board and Chief Mentor of Infosys Technologies Limited himself, this Radio City RJ is one among the 60 young leaders from around the world to attend the Summit and represent India in Schloss Leopoldskron, Austria from December 1-6, 2007. Speaking on the occasion, Apurva Purohit, CEO, Radio City 91.1FM said, Renowned as a people centric organisation, this acknowledgment celebrates our people and our continued focus on investing in them. A very excited RJ Vasanthi said, “This nomination has come as a complete surprise to me. I would like to wholeheartedly thank Radio City, my listeners for their love and colleagues for their support! I look forward to representing my country and Radio City at this Global Summit!”
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December 2007 | Radio Duniya
BLACK AND
WHITE
IS RADIO SOCIALLY PROGRESSIVE ? Radio is a medium more ubiquitous than both the television and the Internet, in terms of reach, in India. And yet, India remains one of the last countries to open up the airways for private radio channels. Yet, the opening up of the airwaves has been nothing short of a revolution. This revolution of sorts, started in the mid-1990s, when AIR opened up the spectrum for sharing by auctioning radio
The commercial FM channels should demonstrate a degree of social sensitivity, and then they can make a demand for news and current affairs. airwaves to private FM channels all over India. The coming of private FM channels has brought for the audiences a more vibrant environment in terms of music and presentation, than when there was only the staid old public radio broadcasting (though much of it is still limited and repetitive from one channel to the next). Among radio’s key strengths are its reach and emotional connect with listeners. Radio speaks to the listener and connects with him on a ‘one-
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to-one’ basis. The medium is very high in listener equity as listener identifies with the RJ and over a period of time develops an emotional bond. The listener tunes into radio for music along with information which is useful and affects his day to day life. While this information could vary across details he is seeking, to things he needs to be informed about, an FM station can innovatively create opportunities to engage him meaningfully to meet much larger ends. An FM station can appeal to his personal sense of doing / contributing to a social cause by eliciting his participation for social initiatives. By doing this successfully, an FM
Among radio’s key strengths are its reach and emotional connect with listeners. Radio speaks to the listener and connects with him on a ‘one-toone’ basis. The medium is very high in listener equity as listener identifies with the RJ and over a period of time develops an emotional bond.
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“Lets cover the parties, lets dote on the happening people, lets not talk issues, lets indulge in pointless wit”
channels are owned by investors who may not be very keen on promoting social agendas.
brand can actually bring the community together in support of causes which warrant action and attention.
The ‘youth centric programming’ is the hallmark of most of these channels, is quite cursory, and paints a picture of youth, entirely consonant with the ‘non thinking consumerist’ approach to audience. This is one more discourse amongst many, that is capturing the young audience, and hooking them on to content on popular movies, commercial products, etc. The motto seems to be “Lets cover the parties, lets dote on the happening people, lets not talk issues, lets indulge in pointless wit”.
However, after the opening up of the market, it is now a contention on part of the commercial FM channels, that they be allowed to air news and current affairs. Characteristically, the idea, that news, will make a channel more serious, in terms of covering the area under its airways, is not entirely sensible. There has been an explosion of news sources in recent times, and there is no saying, that airing of news on commercial FM channels will make any difference. This slight disadvantage is however, no obstacle for these channels to produce socially relevant content. Also, the broadcasting of news on the private FM channels, is not an audience imperative, as is widely claimed.
The best content is still believed to reside at AIR. In that case perhaps its time that AIR pulled up its socks and indulged in some smart marketing. However, interestingly AIR corners a disproportionately low pie of the radio advertising cake, even though it has often been criticised for holding a monopoly over public radio broadcasting. Now that the airwaves have opened up, are we to witness, the dumbing down of public airwaves, where the once dominant state paradigm of radio programming is replaced by an even more sterile, commercial programming? This is what the cynics are asking; and perhaps the answer lies buried in their own question.
The informal programming style in fact hold great potential for socially relevant content, since such content is often held up in formal spaces, specifically marked for the purpose. Thus the potential for informal programming to help generate a progressive discourse in society, should not be underestimated. In fact Indian airwaves are in need of such a discourse, where the informal nature of commercial FM, would become a vehicle for socially progressive ideas to be disseminated.
To remark on the presenters on commercial FM channels, or in other words the ‘Radio Jockeys’, they just seem to be a breed of fast talkers, with little knowledge of music, let alone news and current affairs, and the cognitive skills for social analyses and critique. All of them advocate ‘living life to the fullest’(whatever that means), most of them apparently like ‘reading and making friends’, they all meet ‘lovely people everyday’, and almost all of them fit into a cliché! In spite of radio stations trying to consolidate Radio Jockeys as personalities, most of them sound exactly the same. It is easy for broadcasters to comment time and again that the audience in India is not mature enough, but it is clearly more difficult to reflect upon one’s own programming style and content.
This is not to justify the decision of the government to retain with All India Radio (AIR) the rights to be the sole provider of news and current affairs, but to underscore the need for socially relevant programming within the space currently available to commercial FM channels. The commercial FM channels should first demonstrate a degree of social sensitivity, and only then should they make a demand for the right to air news and current affairs. A pertinent question to ask in this context would be, is socially relevant programming not commercially viable? Many would say it is not commercially viable (though reluctantly), and this response is in fact similar in form, to the argument we often hear – ‘We cannot help it. This is what the people want.’ But perhaps the truth is that most FM Radio
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All of them advocate living life to the fullest, most of them apparently like reading and making friends, they all meet lovely people everyday, and almost all of them fit into a cliché !
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
There is nothing that prevents advertisers to put their weight behind socially conscious programming, apart from their own biases There is nothing impeding the commercial FM radio channels to engage in socially conscious programming. Consider for example, the not very well known private FM channel in Delhi – Meow 104.8 FM. This particular channel has carved a niche for itself, with its programming style, that reflects a socially progressive attention to content, specifically on the issues of gender. Even on common issues, the channel tries to invoke a fresh debate. It is perhaps the only channel in Delhi addressing the issues of gender oppression and violence. The channel also looks at problems of motherhood, child labour, parenting, and the career issues of women. There is a fresh breed of programming on this channel that deserves to be replicated, on other channels. As to how progressive is the content on this channel, it requires another article. In the least the channel, opens doors for socially conscious programming, and endorses a philosophy of conversation oriented style of radio. There is a fair amount of social commentary on private radio outside the metros, where a lot of experimentation is going on. Here we can mention 93.5 S FM, which provides socially relevant programming such as ‘SFM Lakshya’ which is a programme based on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGS). In Bhubaneswar SFM has entered into a partnership with the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation and does a show called SFM Prayas every Sunday. The show is aimed at taking people’s issues in the city to the BMC, and making an effort to get them addressed. The radio station here realizes that as a premier FM channel in the city, apart from entertaining the people it is important to take up issues which have social relevance and make an effort towards progress. The programme is very important for the station in Bhubaneswar as it allows the radio channel to connect with the people on an emotional level. To take up one’s issue personally and that to a government office and getting it addressed is not an easy task. So SFM Prayas has made it easier for the people in the city to have their BMC related issues addressed.
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There might be a case here for advertisers’ themselves becoming more keen on socially conscious programming. There is nothing that prevents advertisers to put their weight behind such programming, apart from their own biases. In fact one could go on to say, that it is indeed the advertisers, and the producers, who are not mature enough, and are keen to push this fact onto the audience. But, it is a very loose call, gathering from the dismal social quotient of the advertisements on television. Almost all products sold to men, show gains in terms of women, and all the products sold to women, seem to work towards making the husband happy. In this atmosphere, it is indeed courageous and apt for Meow, to engage in programming, to address the social norms towards more progressive ideas. Meow also aptly demonstrates how an informal style of programming can be made to suite the requirements of socially progressive programming. This is a wake-up call to AROI. Is it in their agenda to look at content? Or will mainstream commercial FM stations continue to make us happy, with the same clichéd chit-chat, and the same kind of music? Will AROI remain an industry body dominated by the big players, bent upon pushing their business agendas, bereft of all social concerns? Let the AROI not forget - the airways are public property, and apropos to that, citizen concern should be the first priority. By citizen, I do not mean to imply, the so called ‘cool people’, ‘beautiful people’, and ‘happening people’.The critiques of the ‘page three’ kind of content, can be equally applicable to most content on private commercial FM channels – the audio equivalent of ‘page three’. In the final analysis, it is the responsibility of producers, and owners, of commercial FM Radio Stations to move beyond the clichés and provide programming, that is sensitive to the need to promulgate progressive ideas in society. Also many a music lovers would like to ask for a more representative dose of music instead of the staple small corner the channels keep playing from. The FM channels need to stand up to the challenge and deliver some intelligent programming, and stop blaming the immaturity of the audience.
There is a fair amount of social commentary on private radio outside the metros, where a lot of experimentation is going on.
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Radio is an excellent platform to reach out to a large audience base and works well even when spreading awareness on social and environmental issues among other things. At BIG 92.7 FM, it is our endeavour to live our brand line – Suno Sunao, Life Banao! – By impacting lives of listeners positively, in everything that we do. For e.g. We hosted the Traffic Month in Kanpur – to create awareness on traffic problems, we have done Helmet Safety Drive in Chennai, we have also spread awareness on the hazards of smoking, ill effects of drunk driving, aids awareness drives and many other such initiatives. We just provide the platform and bring the issues to the fore, it is listener participation really that makes the initiative a success. Manav Dhanda, National Programming Head, BIG 92.7 FM
I think they should be and as far as we are concerned, we definitely address these issues and concerns. For example in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh gender bias is a major concern, we do deal with and address the issue but we don’t want to preach people. We want them to understand it, absorb it and then act on it. Radio as a medium has been fairly active in fulfilling lots of social responsibilities which it can as a medium. In its FM avtar, radio is more fun and entertainment, so our route and manner of taking up social issues would be different, but we do address all social issues. Most of the content is strictly entertainment, but we do address our social responsibilities. Like in Ajmer, when the blasts occurred we issued appeals on radio and asked people to stay calm, if that is social responsibility then yes, we are fulfilling our social responsibilities towards the people. Viplove Gupte, National Programming Head, 94.3 MY FM
Nisha Narayanan Project Head 93.5 S FM
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Many radio channels do look into social programming and issues of local concern. It is just that they are programmed or packaged in a way that’s very different from inyour-face pubic service broadcasting. The idea is to get across messages in a way that listeners can absorb and use, not to burden them with information and advice. As long as we succeed in doing this, one should not question the programming concepts or the creative processes used. The old ways of doing long, sober commentaries and high-minded messaging on radio is passé. As Sam Goldwyn said, if you want to send messages, go to Western Union! There’s a fair amount of social commentary on private radio, particularly outside the metros where a lot of experimentation is going on. Socially relevant programming has always generated tremendous responses from our listeners, like SFM Lakshya which is a programme based on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGS) or SFM Prayaas, where we tie up with the local municipal corporation and invite people to call in with their problems and issues. We also do a number of programmes that deal with gender, disability, HIV/AIDS and other socially relevant themes. Taking up social issues seriously is very important to the station because of the very fact that radio has a large and an immediate impact on the general public and these small or big acts are reflective of its social conscience and commitments to the community and society at large within which it operates.
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
Sameer Kanwar, National Programming Head, Mantra FM
Certainly, there have been “no-occasion” till date that we missed out on any of the important days. We celebrated the following days ON-AIR where we played contests, took bytes from the audience and did special programming: Children’s day, Independence day, Gandhi Jayanti, etc. We also marked the ‘world heart day’ & ‘world AIDS day’ where we had an expert in the studio (all the stations) and people called in to clear up their queries/ fallacies/ misconceptions. While we continuously and vigorously keep entertaining our listeners at all our 8 stations, at the same time we understand our social responsibility and we duly try to fulfill the same while leveraging the strengths of our medium to generate awareness about social and other important issues. According to me, anything which is of social relevance and should be addressed, in terms of awareness is a station’s social responsibility. There are certain things which if spoken about ON-AIR might be termed as “obnoxious” but then the “rule of elimination” always come handy. One thing we never forget is: “We’re here to entertain”.
The Best part about Radio is the freedom and local connect, which helps enhancing and influencing lives of the listeners by updating them on a regular basis about the things happenings around them. Also it acts as a medium for the listeners to express their thoughts and concern on any of the relevant social causes. Yes FM stations play a huge role in creating social awareness because unlike any other medium the reach is very high in radio and people of all the segments at one point or the other, tune in to Radio. Due to its mass reach capacity, radio can be ranked as one of the most prominent player to generate mass awareness.
S K Ramesh, Executive V P & Head of Content, Hello FM 106.4
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Praveen Malhotra, VP Sales and Head North, Big 92.7 FM
Being a truly local medium, FM Radio channels can go a long way in mobilizing societal awareness about a range of issues. We at Hello FM 106.4 both partner and engage ourselves in these initiatives as a routine daily activity. As part of the programming policy, we adopt one ‘cause’ every day, and work towards causing a positive change – even if it is at a modest level, at the end of that day. This is achieved through daylong sharing of information through jock-talk, telephonic/IVRS/SMS interaction and on-ground touch & feel engagements. Which other medium can mildly remind you at a traffic signal to switch of your engine in an effort towards conserving fuel? Who does a housewife turn to for information beforehand about scheduled power cuts to be able to plan her domestic chores? How often has a life been saved thanks to a call for immediate blood? Did you know that one of the voices that you hear often on Hello FM 106.4 belongs to a visually challenged person? Just a few instances to showcase the fact how FM Radio channels – and only FM Radio channels aid social awareness and societal consciousness in an unobtrusive and sensitive manner not so easily replicable by any other medium.
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Radio, as any other mass medium that influences public opinion has a socially responsible role to play. Being a live and interactive medium, every radio station has to keep in mind sensitivities of the public at large. FM Stations play a huge role in creating social awareness. Being a local medium, it can be used effectively to highlight local issues that require attention and can also garner support from the local populace. At BIG 92.7 FM we take our social responsibility seriously, both on air and off air. Hence, whether traffic updates, health updates, weather updates, humor quotient required in a stress-filled life… we package in as much as possible. Similarly, on ground, whether it is AIDS Awareness programs, Traffic Awareness Months or any other activity – we look at activities that really affect the city in a big way. At BIG 92.7 FM it is our endeavor to positively impact the society at large and we do so in everything that we do, as we live our brand-line Suno Sunao, Life Banao!
Rana Barua, National Head – Marketing Radio City 91.1FM
Compared to other mediums of entertainment, radio is always ‘on-the-move’ with the consumer. With the reach and the cost effectiveness of radio, FM can and is being used extensively to spread social messages. Radio is a habit-forming medium, which creates a deep personal connect with listeners. The listener-connect lies in engaging the audience through what is meaningfully ‘relevant’ to them. We endeavour to leverage the power of this connect to involve our listeners in an attempt to try fulfil the unmet needs of the community we live in. Thus, as a very social medium, FM brands bolstered by listener support can make a meaningful difference to society. We at Radio City have been taking up compelling social causes to make a memorable difference to the community. We observed World AIDS Day through a robust AIDS awareness campaign which included community mobilization, fund raising and special programming initiatives. The special programming line up across 14 of Radio City’s FM stations included the airing of specially packaged informative promos and special capsules busting myths on AIDS along with on-air contests
Radio is the strongest medium today. It has more power than any other medium. Radio can and does create awareness on social and environmental issues. At MY FM we keep doing our bit for the society and solving problems that we can. One example that comes to mind is when during exam time, students called into MY FM Jaipur and told us that because of the precarious power situation their studies were suffering. We aired their complaints and within one hour the Chief Minister had instructed the power department to take care of the matter. So that reflects the power of the media and what radio can do for the society. As a group we are very responsible to the cities and the people we are catering to. Like we keep doing ‘Save Water’ Campaigns in various cities of Rajasthan, where scarcity of water is a major issue. As long as radio realizes its power and uses it in a responsible manner, it can do a lot for creating social awareness.
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Tarun Katial, COO, BIG 92.7 FM
Harrish M. Bhatia, Business Head, 94.3 MY FM
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
Making Sense of Measuring the BEAT of Indian RADIO Audience
On 31st October, 2007, Radio Audience Measurement (RAM), the radio initiative from TAM Media Research was released to a lukewarm response by the radio industry. Many stations like Radio City, Red FM, Big FM and Fever FM who have bought the data, are already using it in various ways to know more about their stations. While some like Radio Mirchi and Radio Today have not subscribed to the data and are critical of the manner in which the research has been carried out and the tools used. RAM is a service which provides a measurement of radio listeners and tracks the growth of the radio industry. Like the existing Television Audience Measurement or TAM, RAM is also a joint venture between market research firm IMRB International and Nielsen Media Research, the global information and media company. According to L.V. Krishnan, Chief Executive Officer, TAM Media Research, “The RAM service is all set to accelerate the radio industry’s growth via measurement. Currently, radio contributes three per cent of the total ad pie. Three years down the line, measurement will bring more business commitment to radio, enabling it to double its revenue, like we have observed in television.” The new radio service provides measurement of listener reach, ad spends and peak listening times among other services. RAM ratings are being made available on a weekly basis. The data is of importance to media planning agencies and radio broadcasters. Currently, the RAM panel is measuring radio audiences in Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore.
media have seen phenomenal growth due to TRPs and circulation numbers respectively. However, now with RAM data available, marketers will be able to use radio channels more effectively.” The research aims to assist marketers and advertisers in buying air time and planning promotional activities. It also seeks to help the radio industry rake in higher revenue like television and print media. There are many advantages of RAM. It is the only continuous measurement study in India that tracks Radio Audience behavior 365 days x 24 hours. And it provides all day listening from the same respondent thereby providing insights on listenership trends over a period of time. The essence of weekly ratings is to gauge sensitivity of listenership to stimuli like programming changes, promotions, marketing changes of a station. The idea is not to get into straight-jacket rankings but allow users the versatility to dissect data on various parameters like cummulative audience, audience share, time spent listening, TARP, exclusive audience etc. Currently, RAM is based on three markets – Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, where 480 respondents each in the three cities, log the details of the radio programmes they listen to each day in their diary, which forms the basis for tabulating the weekly radio listenership ratings for these markets. RAM will move to Kolkata by early next year (2008). And in the following months, it will move to markets that contribute to 80% of advertising spends.
The survey, conducted by TAM Media Research, rated FM stations on different parameters like reach, listenership and the time spent listening. The research adopted the “daily diary” method, taking into account listeners above 12 years of age.
With RAM officially in place, the market feedback has been great. According to the industry players, it has helped broadcasters and agencies in answering many important questions regarding listenership, reach, audience preferences and listening pattern.
The research was much awaited by the radio industry. As Siddhartha Mukherjee, vice-president (communications), TAM Media Research Pvt Ltd, put it, “The idea was to give the marketers a good understanding of radio and its consumption. Radio is the oldest medium in India but due to lack of measurement and research tools, it did not grow at the same pace as other mediums. Television and print
The Media agencies can better answer questions like: • Which station gets maximum listeners? • Which station suits my brands target audience perfectly? • Which daypart is more suitable for reaching my target audience? • How much reach (cover) can I get potentially
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•
if I use Station A v/s Stations A+B v/s Stations A+B+C? How many days/weeks do I need to be on-air to capitalize on the medium?
For the Broadcasters RAM provides answers to questions like: • Do all stations reach the same set of listeners or are profiles different? • Which day part should I treat as a priority? • Are there day parts that are key for some target groups v/s for others? • How much time do people spend listening to Radio? Currently, the contribution of radio to the total ad pie is very small. With RAM in place and audience measurement data being available, it should bring in more business to radio enabling it to increase its revenue like television has been able to achieve. With the level of insights and detailing RAM data offers, radio is all set to become a strategic medium and not continue to remain as a tactical medium And for those who still remain skeptical of the new initiative, Krishnan offers an insight, “RAM is an industry currency scientifically crafted for the Indian Radio Industry, not only after extensive study of both Indian and the International markets, but very importantly, in consultation with the actual users of this measurement service. The spirit should be that industry members make maximum use of this service for their own benefit and the growth of the medium at large.” RAM’s focus is on education of how radio could be used to target audience (content and advertising); bring insights of audience behaviour to the industry members, to help them build their respective business; help broadcasters and media agencies see value in integrating radio as part of their media mix strategy by providing in-depth data on audience behaviour, and act as a guide to broadcasters in showcasing audience preferences to content.
of listening for a seven day period – resulting in higher levels of reported listening over recall methods. Also, the seven days of listening from the same person provides actual reach and frequency, and cross station and session reach. Also, Nielsen measures radio in 12 countries (more countries than any other one company), of which 11 countries measured are from across Asia Pacific. The Diary method allows more extensive listening analysis than Day After Recall (DAR). Radio Advisor Software will bring insights to users in India never before available. The future of radio research in India is bright and includes the expansion of the services to other cities, with Kolkata being the at the top of the list. RAM is expected to cover 10 cities by the end of 2008. In terms of technology, RAM has electronic measurement plans and intends to test ‘Go Meter’ in 2008. Nielsen Media’s electronic meters for radio audience measurement is already undergoing test runs in markets such as Australia. Go Meters are based on cellphone software technology which can detect audio signals. In effect, radio listenership patterns of people can be mapped constantly. The bottom line is that radio needs a tool for measurement and RAM is the best tool possible at present. It answers most, if not all, of the radio listenership related questions, whether they are from the side of advertisers or broadcasters. At the end of the day, we have to realize that as the medium evolves so will the methods of measuring its reach and effect. Both the industry and its measurement tools need to grow in tandem and synergize for the development of radio in India.
Source: www.tamindia.com
Krishnan adds that, “In the future TAM media research could look at drawing synergies of TAM’s television panel and RAM’s radio panel data at a localized level by exploring data fusion options.” Though there have been debates over the kinds of methods used for RAM, the “Radio Diary” (where respondents log radio listenership details each day) is currently the most widely used method and is counted as one among the ‘World’s Best Practices’. It is used in countries like the U.S (in over 200 cities), Canada, the U.K, Australia and South Africa. It captures all levels 22
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
e s n e m im is io d a r f o e p o c S Tarun Katial, COO, BIG 92.7 FM Tarun Katial, Chief Operating
Officer Big FM, first made a name for himself as the producer of Indian television’s K-soaps on Star Plus, he then brought reality television to the country, and now he heads Reliance-Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group’s 45-station strong radio network, Big 92.7 FM. Banking on Abhishek Bachchan as the face of Big FM and supported by the brand philosophy of ‘Suno Sunao Life Banao,’ the group is looking to firm up its position in existing markets by rolling out many unique properties by the year-end. In an interview with Radio Duniya, he speaks about the spread of Big FM into the urban and smaller markets, the potential of radio and the recently released RAM data.
How is the experience of handling radio different from that of working for television?
How would you compare radio and television as mediums of communication?
Television has helped in a big way with respect to connecting with the audience. One learns discipline in the television medium and this helps in dealing with topicalities and strategic planning. Also, the scope of radio as a medium to cater to both advertisers as well as consumers is immense.
While TV is a visual medium, Radio is an aural medium. This allows for the power of imagination on Radio!
www.radioduniya.in
On Radio you may be reaching out to a mass audience, but you are actually speaking to one person…it is a very personal medium and especially so with the 23
people’s t c a p m i e W vely lives positi er ything v e h g u o r h t both … o d e w t a th air. on and off proliferation of personal devices like the mobile, portable music players etc. Radio is also a passive medium; hence you can consume it while doing your regular chores. The RJ plays an important role since he/she develops a personalized relationship with the listener. One of the biggest differences is that Radio is a completely local medium and hence the ability to tailor, makes content meet local tastes, which is not feasible with television. The turnaround time is less and hence the need to limit yourself is also less. Big 92.7 FM is one of the fastest growing radio networks in the country, what is its USP? At BIG 92.7 FM, we live our brand-line, Suno Sunao, Life Banao! and we have positioned ourselves on the platform of ‘life enhancement’ – delivering everyday relevant content that positively impacts the lives of our listeners.
In addition, we have regular on-air and on ground properties to ensure recall and connect. We have done innovative stuff like ‘Life Booth from a Hoarding’, we also did the RJ Marathon – with jocks hosting live shows for 92.7 hours continuously and so on. We look at engrossing content that will keep the listener tuned in! Big is the first radio station to use Brand Ambassadors? What made you decide on ambassadors like Abhishek Bachchan, Upendra and Asin? How successful has it been? Abhishek Bachchan has ensured aspiration at the highest level. In the cluttered radio market, he has helped us stand apart. Abhishek Bachchan is an icon and a superstar and his brand equity has worked extremely well for BIG 92.7 FM. Our celebrity RJs also help us connect better with the listeners and offer an aspirational edge. Once low on aspiration as a medium, celeb RJ’s have gone a long way in bringing on new listeners and of course retaining existing ones. How does BIG deliver it’s promise of “Suno Sunao, Life Banao!” to all its listeners? Through our brand-line “Suno Sunao Life Banao” we impact people’s lives positively through everything that we do…both on and off air. It is our endeavor to highlight the ‘local heroes of our society’. Simple people who have never been given due credit for things they have done for the betterment of the society. We salute the common man. In addition, we always look for ways in which we can touch / change / impact lives in a positive way.
Secondly, our music positioning is a distinct Hot Adult Contemporary format- whereby we play the cities favourite music. We tailor our music strategy to suit local requirements. Hence, in Delhi, we have introduced the 100 Chartbuster Format, since RAM data is clearly the it was the requirement of the most credible currency. city. What all is being planned at Big in terms of innovative programming and marketing strategies?
It is the only continuous measurement study in India which tracks radio
We have undertaken several initiatives – installing drinking water in several key places in certain cities, lightening up with lives of Cancer affected kids, collected money to help terminally ill who needed the funds, created awareness for World Aids Day etc.
Some time ago, we introduced audience behavior 24x7 We do things that make a large Raju Shrivastav on BIG 92.7 FM, he does the breakfast show with impact and affect people’s a humorous take on the same. lives. Then was the Sabse BIG Diwali offering, where listeners got to win BIG this Diwali. Coming up As the most far reaching network of radio shortly is Chipak ke Jeetho – an endurance test, stations how difficult is it to ensure local where the winner gets a car and the New Year connect? will usher in Ek Saal Free Maal, where the winner gets an free goodies from BIG 92.7 FM, the year At BIG 92.7 FM we program locally, to meet local round. needs and preferences and do not merely replicate 24
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
programming across cities. Hence, whether the language, the music, the choice of RJ’s, everything is local to ensure local connect at all levels.
shifts are true for all measurement systems across the world, where competing brands are close to each other.
What according to you are the social responsibilities of an FM channel?
What kinds of audience measurement tools do you see being used in the future?
Radio, as any other mass medium that influences public opinion has a socially responsible role to play. Being a live and interactive medium, every radio station has to keep in mind sensitivities of the public at large. At BIG 92.7 FM we take our social responsibility seriously, both on air and off air. Hence, whether traffic updates, health updates, weather updates, humor quotient required in a stress-filled life… we package in as much as possible. Similarly, on ground, whether it is AIDS Awareness programs, Traffic Awareness Months or any other activity – we look at activities that really affect the city in a big way.
It is obviously very important to have precise measurement tools and techniques.
Radio however is not allowed to broadcast news as of now and hence this limits the role that a live and portable medium such as radio can play in the society at large. At BIG 92.7 FM it is our endeavor to positively impact the society at large and we do so in everything that we do, as we live our brand-line Suno Sunao, Life Banao! Do you feel FM channels can play a huge role in creating social awareness? Sure FM Stations play a huge role in creating social awareness. Being a local medium, it can be used effectively to highlight local issues that require attention and it can also garner support from the local populace.
World over the diary measurement is the most widely used methodology. The new measurement tool addresses all requirements of broadcasters and advertisers alike. The study is being conducted by the most credible research houses in the country – TAM, IMRB and ACNielsen, who have done thorough research in individual markets before setting up the diary panel. What media buyers require is the ability to ensure best return on investment. They need to not only invest in the right station but also buy the right hours / day parts, depending on the performance. This allows them to be able to fine tune their radio plans according to their requirement and this is what the diary system allows for.
At BIG 92.7 FM it is our endeavor to positively impact the society at large and we do so in everything that we do, as we live our brand-line Suno Sunao, Life Banao!
What is your take on the recently released Radio Audience Measurement ratings? RAM data is clearly the most credible currency. It is the only continuous measurement study in India which tracks radio audience behavior 24x7. It is acknowledged as a currency across markets providing robust and market sensitive consumption habits. The fact is that in certain markets – even between No.1 & No.2 there is no clear leader, which means that nobody dominates the market right now. The gap between the players is small and hence weekly activities undertaken by stations are going to see change in leadership in some markets. Weekly www.radioduniya.in
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! e S l i D Harrish M Bhatia Business Head - Synergy Media Entertainment Limited, 94.3 MY FM, has been with the Bhaskar Group for long. The launch of Divya Bhaskar in Gujarat in 2003 is to his credit. He was based in Mumbai since 2005 as Vice President, Sales and Marketing for South and West. In his illustrious career he has worked with the Korean Multinational LG Electronics, Onida & Aristocrat Luggage. He was responsible for the launch of LG Door Cooling Refrigerators in India. As National Business Head can you elaborate on the priority areas of MY FM? The priority is to establish radio as a very strong medium in the market. Sitting in Delhi and Bombay, the media faculty really does not notice radio as a medium. Even though there has been some improvement in the last two years, but there is still a long way to go for radio. And our priority is to establish the category in our own market so that people start noticing it. 26
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
How does MY FM plan to establish the “local connect” with its audiences? I think local connect can only be established by MY FM! No other brand in the industry can do this better than us. We are the only radio company, which has the total knowledge of the entire market where our radio stations have been launched. We have been in states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh for many years now, because of our print synergy. We know the tastes, priorities, language, likes and dislikes of the people. Nobody can understand these markets better than us and if we cannot establish a local connect, believe me, nobody can!! Our content caters to the demographic and cultural needs of these markets, because of our thorough understanding of these markets. We ensure that our music, content and programming is in accordance with the specific needs of the city markets to which we are catering. What kind of innovation is being planned at MY FM? On all FM channels, about 70% of the content is similar, as it is in the form of songs, just the remaining portion can have innovations. As I have mentioned, we understand the towns very well, so we know the requirement of the people and we have an edge over all the other players. We also understand our people in terms of their requirements and cater to them accordingly. Thus, there is nobody in the market who can compete with us on these things. We are present across the whole state, there is no station that can claim to cover the whole state of Punjab, Rajasthan and M.P. The consumers who are listening to MY FM can continue to listen to it across the state. Plus, we can combine our resourses from both radio and print to inform and entertain.
What is your take on the recently released Radio Audience Measurement ratings? To begin with, I think it is good. There has to be some measurement tool in the industry, whether it is RAM or something else. The idea is that the industry has to start getting the respect and recognition that it deserves. There is no restriction on other kinds of tools of measurement. Like, in the print media there are a number of tools of measurement and in the same manner for television you have various tools and agencies. Now the revolution is occurring in the radio industry, and we will have more tools in the future, all of which can co-exist. For now, we must realize that it (measurement) has to start somewhere. And I would say RAM is a good beginning. What kinds of audience measurement tools do you see being used in the future? As the industry evolves the measurement tools will also evolve. When television started they struggled with various types of tools for audience measurement and then they moved to tools like the people meter. At present there is a sample of just 4800
What is MY FM’s USP? As the name suggests MY FM, ‘Dil Se’ is a medium for the people. It makes a strong connection with the people. We bond well with the local people; we understand them and we design our programming according to their needs and wants. This is the biggest USP that we have. Most radio stations in our market do not understand the places well and hence it is very difficult for them to design the programmes as people desire. Our exclusive network and local connect is hence our USP. www.radioduniya.in
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people meters which decide for more than 5500 crore rupees of advertising. One can question it, because the sample size is small. But what is the way forward. So in the future we will also have many alternatives that can take the measurement forward. The advertisers and other players have to be willing to invest in the measurement process. And as the industry evolves, better things will follow, like Radio Duniya has been launched as a magazine for the radio industry, because there is a need for it. So that is how people start coming in the industry and good things will follow. Why do you think the FM radio stations should be allowed to broadcast news? My question is why not?? More than 70% of our economy is based on agriculture, these agriculturists are all illiterate, they can’t read newspapers, and many of them would not have televisions, and you also have shortage of power in villages and even in cities. Radio is till date the cheapest medium of communication and it can operate on minimal power. If one wants India to turn around, Radio must be allowed to air news.
environmental issues. At MY FM we keep doing our bit for the society and solving problems that we can. One example that comes to mind is when during exam time, students called into MY FM Jaipur and told us that because of the bad power situation their studies were suffering. We aired their complaints and within one hour the Chief Minister had instructed the power department to take care of the matter. So that reflects the power of the media and what radio can do for the society. As a group we are very responsible to the cities and the people we are catering to. We carry on campaigns like the ‘Save Water’ Campaign in various cities of Rajasthan, where the water situation is quite bad. As long as radio realizes its power and uses it in a responsible manner, it can do a lot for creating social awareness.
What according to you are the social responsibilities of an FM channel? Any medium, which is connecting with people, has got almost similar corporate responsibility. Radio should have more as it is reaching to the places no other medium reaches, where one cannot read newspapers and cannot see television but can tune into radio. But one must not provide any information, which is not in the interest of the people and the nation. It is very important for radio stations to act responsibly towards the people. Do you feel FM channels can play a huge role in creating social awareness? Radio is the strongest medium today. It has more power than any other medium. In western countries today, radio can make or break any star or political party, and this may be the reason why the India government is not allowing radio to air news as they know this is a very strong medium, reaching every corner of the country and needs to be controlled and checked. Radio can and does create awareness on social and 28
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
Kuch aisa karo ki naam to ho
Nitin
RJ Nitin hosts Chal Kat Ley, Ticket to Bollywood & Cool Maal on BIG 92.7 FM. He is very energetic and is someone, with whom anyone and everyone can connect. Very passionate about his work, once inside the studio, he just enjoys himself to the core and entertains his listeners with his subtle sense of humor. He aspires to become an actor and believes that he will host one of the seasons of KBC one day. He loves to talk to people and enjoys playing pranks on his listeners and colleagues the most. A hard core Libran, he is very sensible and emotional, but still a very short tempered ‘munda’.. He is ‘Fundu Nitin’, the ‘tashani raam’… What made you choose Radio Jockeying?
What are the pros & cons of the job?
I once heard a radio programme in Kolkata and thats when I decided to be a Radio Jockey. It gives me the freedom and space to enhance my creativity…what better option than being a RJ where your creativity reaches its peak. Also, this profession gives me ample opportunity to make great new friends.
Well, the best thing about it is that you can just enjoy music and laugh along with those who actually judge your work. Also, even if you don’t look great, you can still have a huge following as a radio host. On the other hand, when you aren’t at work, the whole city knows about it. Plus, if a magazine
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decides to profile a bad looking RJ, his fan following is bound to drop, once his pictures get out. Thankfully, mere case main aisi koi tension ki baat nahi hai! ;-) Did you take any training? Is it essential? I am still training since it’s a live medium; you undergo training everyday. If not Radio Jockeying, then what? May be an actor or a scriptwriter ! I always wanted to get into Bollywood and may be five years from now you’ll see me there. Describe your best radio moment? When a listener threatened me on-air, as I wasn’t playing Chal Kat Ley with her What is your USP? My sweety (whistle).. my better half (on-air). What are the requirements for being a Radio Jock? Five hyper-active sensory organs (ears, eyes, nose, tongue and skin)... a great sense of humor, great control over voice and passion for music. How do you prepare yourself for each show? Well, I make sure that I keep my eyes and ears open and stay up to date with all that is going on around the city. I go through the newspaper before my shows, surf the net and find out whats happening around in the world. Through the shows, we air information to people, in relation to the theme of the programme and the kind of songs we are playing. I host three sections during my show. In Chal Kat Ley I follow a particular theme and play a game with my listeners on that theme. So I have to prepare for each new theme everyday. In Ticket to Bollywood I present the latest news + information from Bollywood, so I have to constantly update my knowledge of the film world. And in Cool Maal I talk about the latest gadgets, so again, I need to keep my self well informed about the latest gizmos. Do you feel radio has a social responsibility towards listeners? Of course it does. Exactly like other modes of entertainment TV such as and films, whether intentional or unintentional. BIG 92.7 FM does it fantastically and we believe in not only entertaining our listeners but positively impacting their lives. Our brand philosophy is Suno Sunao, Life Banao! and 30
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
we do a lot of activities inform and educate people beside entertaining them. I feel radio can and does play a major role, in discussing certain important social issues. But we have to realize that just talk will not help, until and unless something comes out of the discussion, its of no use. It has to create an impact. What you do and say has to make a difference to somebody’s life. On one of my shows, we spoke on the issue of “Rights” and many people called in to share their thoughts. I strongly believe, if you are not wrong, go ahead and fight for your rights. As RJ’s if we can make a difference, then we must!! I can either talk nonsense or I can try and do my bit for the people. Kuch aisa karo ki naam to ho, duniya mein!!
What message would you give to all those aspiring Radio Hosts out there? I’d say don’t shy away from auditions. Always believe in yourself. If Nitin Kakkar can become an RJ, then anyone can! :-) Seriously, you just need to have faith in your talents, have confidence in yourself, and a love for music! The spark should always be there, and be ready to work hard! All that the world outside sees is the fame and glory, but there is a whole lot of hard work that goes into each show, and you must be ready to work really hard. At the onset, even if you get a chance to intern, don’t hesitate, just give it your best shot and remember you can do whatever you want in life!.
Snapshot Queries-Most treasured possessionmy whistle (sweety) your inspirationmy listeners Love listening tolistener’s remarks Love watchingfilms Other interests – scripting & directing Ram-Leela Mantra of lifeChak de! Aha…
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Compassion is essential at
th g hin esting t e som inter tely o D find na t o i s you el pas n wha l. e or f ut, tha is coo abo s think er h t o
What made you choose Radio Hosting as a career option? I was a journalist till six months back. I’ve worked in journalism for five years and I was doing part-time radio with AIR. And after five years of journalism I figured that I wanted to try radio full time and Meow seemed like a great place. Its absolutely different as a concept. Its talk radio, and I was very intrigued by the concept so I decided to take the plunge and do radio full time. Its pretty similar to journalism in terms of at least talking to a hundred people in two hours, listening to their perpectives on various issues. Everybody perceives a topic differently and its very interesting chatting with them, figuring out what they think is important and not. So that’s why I decided to take up radio. What are the pros and cons of the job? Its fantastic talking to so many people, its fantastic to know that you connect with such a huge audience. And its 32
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so o t g alkin t c ic i t t s s a a t t n n a It‛s fa ople, it‛s f nnect co pe u o y many t ce. ha n t e i d w u o ge a u to kn h a uch s h t i w
very very interesting meeting people, thinking up different topics, talking to so many people and getting them to think. The flip side is you get up at two in the night because an idea suddenly struck you, its not a job that ever finishes. When I’m driving and I see something weird, I stop in the road and write it in my diary, this is something I can use, because if you are talking for three hours you can’t have prepared scripts. You don’t have a very clear idea of how it’s going to go. You are always on the job. You never stop thinking about it... and that’s something; I do actually feel weird about it at times. Did you take any formal training for the job? Do you feel training is essential? No, Not at all. I did not take any formal training for the job. And I don’t think it’s essential to take training for this. I don’t think anyone can tell you how to handle the audience. And I would tell you even after six months of doing this, there is still nothing that could actually prepare you for all that happens everyday. You just keep learning. You goof up at times! But you just learn from your mistakes. If not radio hosting, then what ? If I had not moved on to do radio full time, I would have continued with journalism.
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Your best radio moment? I have two. Funny instances, when people say something really funny and have me almost falling off my chair, laughing. The first is when a guy called in when we were doing a show on virginity and he said, “ I lost my virginality and it broke.” And I was like what????? And he says, “I lost my virginality and then she go away with it and it broke.” So I couldn’t figure out that and I don’t think I stopped laughing for about 15 minutes. The most touching moment was when a couple called in, and the husband was cheating on the wife. And he told her this on the radio and passed her the phone. So they were both on air, and she had just come to know that he wanted to divorce her, and she didn’t want to divorce him and they also had a kid. I felt really helpless at that point of time. That probably was one moment that always stands out in my memory. Who is your inspiration for this career? Who do you epitomize as a Radio Host? I don’t epitomize anybody. I mean... there are many people I would love to learn a lot of things from; who can handle things better, but there’s no one person who I want to be like. Its also more difficult for us because this is the first time talk radio is introduced in India so nobody else has done this before. 33
What according to you are the most essential requirements for being a Radio Host? Well that would be ... sense of humour... an ability to not take yourself too seriously. Then, language skills, you should be able to communicate (in whichever language you like). Compassion is essential. You need to make the audience feel like they are your equals when you are discussing things with them. . So you need to have the ability to reach their level of understanding – whether they are smatter then you or not quite. You need to talk to them as equals and connect with them. What message would you give to all the budding Radio Hosts out there? If you really want to do something, you should do it, but not just because it’s the coolest thing to do. I strongly believe that. A lot of people are interested in radio because they think it’s a very cool career . But just do something in life that you are interested in doing and you feel passionately about, not because people perceive it as cool or you think it’s the most happening job in the city. Do you feel radio has a social responsibility towards listeners? Radio surely has a social responsibility towards it listeners, we connect with our audiences and
give them a space to voice their views on many important, social issues and causes. We discuss anything and everything under the sun, whether it is personality development, social awareness, domestic violence, social taboos or the dowry system. At Meow we encourage people to call in and talk to us, if they’ve had a bad day they can tell us about it, during the “Wenting Machine” where people went out their day’s frustrations. Also, during the interview segment of my show I chat with an interesting guest everyday, not celebrities, but regular people who have done very different things with life
Snapshot Queries – Most treasured possession – My Family Love Listening to – Rock Music Love Watching – Movies, all sorts of movies, any genre of movies!! Last Movie Seen – “Laga Chunari Mein Daag” Other Interests – Reading and Writing Last Book Read – “Let’s Talk About Kevin” Mantra of Life – Be Happy! Meow!!
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December 2007 | Radio Duniya
RADIO BUZZ REVOLUTIONISED THE RADIO SCENE IN THE REGION
Hardeep Singh Chandpuri, Founder and Director, Academy of Broadcasting
Radio as a medium has already been there for ages but it appears it’s finest hour has just come. All India Radio has been entertaining us for the last so many decades and we have our parents and elders who have grown up on Ameen Sayani’s freshest countdown ‘Binaca Sangeetmala’, Jasdev Singh’s hockey commentary, Devki Nandan Pandey’s news and so on and so forth. But, it seems that radio found it hard to face the imminent onslaught of colour television right after the Asian Games of 1982 in New Delhi. Radio appeared to be dying a slow death. But in the northern region, radio bounced back to heights never ever seen before; actually it became the hottest entertainment option for the youth. Today, we are featuring an interview with celebrated Radio Jockey (RJ) Hardeep Singh Chandpuri, the one to be credited with revolutionising the radio scene in the northern region. He has been involved with radio since 1991, is a newspaper columnist, RJ trainer, owner of the Academy of Broadcasting and Radio Buzz, Chandigarh. www.radioduniya.in
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Te l l u s s o m e t h i n g a b o u t yourself? I did my schooling attended college and university from Chandigarh only. I did my Masters in Mass Communication from Panjab University in 1993. I grew up in a disciplined army environment as my father retired as a Brigadier from the army and he is also a gallantry award winner of Maha Vir Chakra for the ‘Battle of Longewala’ in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Isn’t he the one, on whom the hit hindi feature film ‘Border’ was made? Yes, the film was based on him and Sunny Deol played my father’s role to the hilt. Your father is one of the most highly decorated soldiers of the Indian Army, then how come you got into radio and not the army as expected? In my family, we were all given the freedom to choose our professions. The only thing that my father told me was that whatever I should do in life do it with honesty, integrity and with complete passion, rest God will take care of me, as he did of him during the battle. Where did you take training in radio from?
and that too from the people who themselves are into radio and not the run-of-the-mill training shops on the corners, as they will do you more harm than good. Radio is a very tricky profession, you just have your voice to impress the audience; your diction, pronunciation, voice modulation, knowledge of music, scripting, audio concepts, radio automation, genres has to be exceptional which is why training is a must. You were settled abroad and doing pretty well for yourself there, then why did you leave everything and came back to India to do radio? As they say that there is no price attached to a dream. I dreamt of doing radio in India, in front of my own people and left everything to swim in uncharted waters. I had this dream that I wanted to give back something to our nation which I love the most. For me, it was payback time. It must have been difficult trying to do radio in a different way? I mean not many people were exposed to the kind of stuff you were? I have no qualms in accepting that starting off Radio Buzz in Chandigarh was not an easy task. First of all, we had to convince the All India Radio guys that it was high time that this new style
of radio should be experimented with, I wanted to play Hindi, English and Punjabi songs and my presentation was again in all three languages in a very peppy and happy-go-lucky style, which I knew the youth would love. Secondly, when we went to look for sponsorships some of the corporates would throw back the proposals at our faces taunting us asking ‘Who listens to radio?’ It used to be so frustrating. But ultimately, we had the last laugh (smiles). When did you launch Radio Buzz and how was it like after the inaugural broadcast? We went ‘On-Air’ on 22 November 2002 on 103.1 All India Radio FM, Chandigarh. And the response was nothing short of amazing. ‘Chandigarhians’ had woken-up out of their Sunday slumber and were left speechless with what they heard, some even going to the extent of calling up the local AIR station and asking them ‘if all was well or if the station had changed the frequency’ etc. We were inundated with phone calls from fans and the frenzy was such that we had to increase the duration of our shows from 30 min to two hours in just a few days. I knew then that good days had come for radio in the region and our listeners would be the biggest beneficiaries.
In the early years of my career around 1990-91, I picked up the skill and then I realised that in order to excel, I had to take professional help. Which I found in the shape of one-to-one lessons from the great radio personality Mr. Bill Singer of USA. His training and my radio jockeying stints in Canada, Australia, USA and the Middle East sharpened my skills. So what you are saying is that in order to get into radio, training is very essential? Yes. I would say it is imperative to get yourself trained professionally
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How does it feel to be singly credited with revolutionising the radio scene in the region?
on our weekly show broadcast on Chandigarh FM. And we are also franchising it now.
Actually, I credit all this success to the Almighty and my listeners who gave me so much love and affection. And you bet, it does feel good to be known as a pioneer but, it was all a team effort and I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart.
What have been the placements like at your academy?
How many shows you have done till date? I have gone ‘On-Air’ on more than 6000 shows here in India and abroad. Besides countless Jingles, Spots, VO for documentaries and so on. Many new stations are coming up in the region. It’s going to be tough competition. What do you think of it? We have ruled the last five years all with the support of our listeners. Our listeners have supported us uptil now. It’s nice to have more players and it’s good for the industry as a whole. It’s a matter of pride when our listeners call up and sponsors still retain their interest in us. I would call it; “panch saal vs. panch hafte.” lets see where they’ll reach after five weeks/years. I believe in Darwin’s Theory; “Survival of the Fittest.” But I’ll change it to; “Survival of the Smartest.” You are also running a very successful Radio Jockey training academy in Chandigarh; tell us something about that too? I have been running my Academy of Broadcasting since 2003 and have trained hundreds of students. Some of them are already ‘OnAir’ at various radio stations in India and abroad. We teach them what all is actually required by radio stations, our approach is 70% practical and 30% theory. And all of our students get a guaranteed chance to go ‘On-Air’
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I am very proud to inform that our students have excelled at all levels. They are working at some of the top radio stations in India and abroad. Actually one of our students has been declared the Best Female RJ of India. Our students have made us feel so proud. When we think of radio all we can think of is an RJ, what about jobs in other areas of a radio station? Tr u e . We o f t e n f o r g e t t h a t there are other professionals like Producers, Scriptwriters, Digital Sound Editors, Promo Producers, Production support staff, Voice-Over artistes, Radio sales staff, Content Creators etc., are all required by the radio stations. I know, RJs are the most glamourised. What according to you are the qualities needed to become a Radio Jockey? First of all, one needs to have a clear voice, then comes correct diction, pronunciation and the ability to modulate your voice. Radio in India has evolved over the last few years, the days of those heavy up-to -the-point formal baritones have gone and now the style is more informal, so the ability to connect with the audience is a must. One has to understand, that if the rise in radio is very quick then, the fall is ten times quicker.
of setting up nearly 4000 stations in the next few years. There is a huge shortage of talent and we are trying to bridge that divide. We need to take our training to other cities as well, where the demand is very high and for this we have adopted the time-tested franchise route. Today, a career in radio is the hottest career option. What advice would you like to give to the people interested in a career in radio? It’s for sure a very nice profession and lots of glamour is attached to it which attracts the young generation. They come with stars in their eyes. You will get everything be it, money, fame, popularity, respect etc., but you will have to earn it. Remember, no matter how good you think you are, but still you have to train yourself. You have to understand the working of radio, voice modulation, scripting, diction, pronunciation, knowledge of music etc. All these can be learnt only from someone who himself knows it. Be very careful from whom you take training because training from the wrong person can kill your career even before it starts. Would you like to share any more thoughts? Well after going through all the ups and downs in my career, I coined a one-liner which I want everyone to use, as I did to achieve my goals, it is ‘Always dream an IMPOSSIBLE DREAM, to make your DREAM POSSIBLE.’
How quickly is radio expanding in India? There are more than 500 private radio stations coming up in more than 100 cities, plus the community radio concept is catching up with the Govt proposal
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MY FM tops in Indore and Bhopal 94.3 MY FM, the Bhaskar Group radio station is taking the industry by storm. It has emerged as the fastest growing radio station in Indore and Bhopal within just two months of its launch, according to the market research conducted by AC Nielsen in October ‘07. The station has been voted as the most youthful and up-market radio channel in Indore and Bhopal, owing to its maximum listener ship in SEC A in the age group of 15-24 years. Within just two months of its launch in Indore, 94.3 MY FM has 85% unaided brand recall and enjoys almost 90% recall among listeners of SEC A and in the age group 15-24 years. MY FM’s content in terms of music, variety and contests has been voted as the most loved contents for which a last week listenership of 72% substantiates the results. The radio channel has an ever-increasing listener ship in Bhopal too, where it has notched up unaided brand recall figures of 84%. And with two out of every five FM listeners being 94.3 MY FM loyalists, the radio channel is the clear favorite in the city. It commands top of the mind brand recall that is 3 times more than any new entrant. According to Harrish M. Bhatia, Business Head, 94.3 MY FM, “Madhya Pradesh is one of the biggest markets for us and to become the most popular radio channel here within such a small span of time gives us immense happiness and goes to show our connect with our listeners. We have achieved the distinction of being the fastest growing radio channel and we are sure that our hard work will get us many more accolades.”
MY FM finds new destination of success in Surat After being declared the fastest growing radio brand in Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Indore and Bhopal, 94.3 MY FM Bhaskar Group radio station, has now emerged as the fastest growing radio channel in Surat too, within just three months of its launch, according to the market research conducted by AC Nielsen in November 07. The radio channel is very popular among people of all segments and age groups, as suggested by the highest Top of Mind brand recall among the city’s listeners. At the unaided level, 3 out of every 5 people are aware of 94.3 MY FM’s presence in their region. The radio channel has an astounding 85% last week listenership, which demonstrates the high volume of listeners that tune in to the channel. Harrish M. Bhatia, Business Head, 94.3 MY FM says, “Our channels have been growing from strength to strength and winning hearts and popularity across the country. Already, the fastest growing brand in the radio space, 94.3 MY FM has proved its strength as one of the biggest radio networks in the country.” Says, Viplove Gupte, National Programming Head, 94.3 MY FM, “Our channel has been growing fast and capturing hearts all over. Such success all across the country clearly goes to show our expertise and in-depth study of all our markets. We make a lot of efforts to connect with our listeners and we are glad that our hard work is paying off.”
Big FM shows highest out reach in Mumbai and Bangalore According to the latest Radio Audience Measurement (RAM) data, Big FM has received favourable results. In Mumbai and Bangalore, Big FM was declared as the chosen station across all target groups, delivering the highest reach of over 1.1 crore listeners cumulatively. In addition to leadership position in the two metros, Big FM also witnessed the number two status on weekly reach among the Delhi youth, in the SEC ABC, 12-34 years listeners. The RAM data reaffirms the station’s positioning and content strategy, which have helped the station to stand out in the cluttered environment, says Tarun Katial, COO, Big FM. “The radio listenership measurement is a critical aspect to the industry, the radio industry needs to grow to where it deserves and this is a move in the right direction,” he adds.
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December 2007 | Radio Duniya
Radio Mirchi launches in Mangalore Radio Mirchi 98.3 FM has launched in Mangalore, taking its total number of stations to 28. Besides Mangalore, Radio Mirchi is already operational in places which include Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Indore, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Jaipur, Pune, Patna, Jalandhar, Goa, Bhopal, Vadodara, Kanpur, Rajkot, Varanasi, Nashik, Lucknow, Surat, Aurangabad, Kolhapur, Madurai, Nagpur and Vishakapatnam. Radio Mirchi will roll out four more radio stations by the end of the year to complete the total number of 32 stations in India.
93.5 S FM launched in Calicut and Indore 93.5 SFM launched its new services in Calicut & Indore. SFM Calicut launched on December 7th & SFM Indore launched on December 9th 2007 & both the stations are receiving tremendous response and praise from the people. 93.5 SFM intends to emerge as a single source of contemporary entertainment in these cities, with the best mix of today’s super hit
music. A local entertainer, relevant and genuine, which seeks to instantly serve the information and cultural needs of the region. SFM believes that localizing information bits and incorporating the cultural flavor of the region is crucial for the people connect. And so it includes in its programming special properties that add zing to the content and bring a smile to the faces of listeners.
Radio Dhamal launches in Ranchi B.A.G Films & Media Ltds. - Radio Dhamaal launches in Ranchi on The Jharkhand Day.i.e. 15th November, 2007. Radio Dhamaal is all set to give a new style of entertainment to the listerns of Ranchi with its invigorated shows, on air and ground events. RJs Rakesh Ranjan, Rohit, Nafisa Vikas and Mohnish are wining the hearts of Ranchi with their endearing, whacky and interactive styles. Ranchi listeners will now wake up with the rings of “Morning Alarm”, celebrate “Ladies First” in every walk of life and give up their afternoon siesta for “Mid Day Masti”. That’s not all, it also have a Love ka Doctor who will be around to do their “Love ka Fever Check”. Commenting upon the launch of Radio Dhamaal in Ranchi, Anurradha Prasad, Managing Director- B.A.G Films and Media Ltd. said,” Life is a celebration and Radio Dhamaal will put this element in the lives of all it’s listeners”.
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Radio City launches in Coimbatore Radio City has launched in Coimbatore on 12 November 2007, making it Radio City’s 13th FM station in the country. The station plans to have a host of programmes along with an interesting Tamil music mix, which Coimbatore prefers. The music will be in sync with the station’s vibes - an invigorating new music format of Tamil adult contemporary music, that will appeal to its TG of SEC AB 20-40 years, says the station. Says Radio City CEO Apurva Purohit, “Combining our musical expertise, innovations and creativity, Radio City brings to Coimbatore compelling content and a music mix strategically planned to uplift the mood of its listeners. We are certain that our brand promise of ‘Whatte Fun’ will catch on very well with Radio Cityzens in Coimbatore giving them an unmatched radio experience.” The station has also planned on-air and on-ground contest ‘Jeeto Cash Tanaa Tan’ starting 19 November, wherein listeners can win cash prizes on the spot every day for almost a month. Kerala gets first private FM station
93.5 SFM launched in Bhopal and Lucknow 93.5 SFM has now launched in Bhopal and Lucknow. With 45 stations SFM is one of India’s largest commercial radio networks. In Lucknow the RJs will offer latest Bollywood numbers in “sufiana” qawwali style, to add the local flavor to the mix of super hit numbers. In Bhopal, folk singers will ensure that people forget the original version of the song with their Maarwari and Bundelkhandi rendering. SFM recognizes the need for today’s interactive radio to also raise issues that surround people in their daily life. Characters like Khaala Cheel and Kamla will tickle the funny bones while they talk about issues pertaining to hygiene, AIDS, cleanliness and the like.
Malayala Manorama’s Radio Mango 91.9 FM is launched in Kozhikode. It is the first private FM radio station in Kerala. Radio Mango will launch three more stations at Kochi, Kannur and Thrissur. Besides music, it will offer a variety of entertainment programmes like humour, city updates, sports, celebrity interviews, finance snippets and fashion overviews. The government has given a nod to the launch of 17 new FM radio stations in Kerala. Big 92.7 FM launched in Sholapur BIG 92.7 FM, India’s No.1 FM Station, today announced the latest edition to its kitty, with the launch of its Station in Sholapur. The launch of BIG 92.7 FM in the city marks the launch of the 38th Station of the network. In Sholapur, BIG 92.7 FM RJ’s Ashwin, Pallavi, Mahesh, Baburao and Shekhar will entertain the city and the adjoining areas of Pandharpur, Akkalkot, Mangalwedha and Tuljapur. The joyride will start at 6 am with Mansparshi by RJ Pallavi. This spiritual programme is to be followed by the Breakfast Show ‘Kadak Chaha’ with RJ Ashwin from 7am to 11 am. Other shows on weekdays include ‘Hi Mazhi Life He” with RJ Pallavi from 11 am to 2 pm, “Chal Kalti Maar’ with RJ Mahesh from 2 to 5 pm, “Bajjipav with Baburao’ with RJ Baburao from 5 to 6 pm, ‘Big Googly’ with RJ Shekhar Suman from 6 to 9 pm and request show ‘Meri Marzi’ from 9 to 11 pm. There will be special shows on Sunday’s as well like “Jo Fit He Wo Hit He’ with Simmi Sakhuja, “The Best of Mansparshi”, Krazy Kiya Re” and others.
Ranchi tunes into Mantra FM Dainik Jagran’s Radio Mantra has become the first commercial FM station to launch in Ranchi. Completing the setup of its eight stations, Radio Mantra has employed RCS products for the site in Ranchi, with the studios equipped with NexGen Digital as playout system. NexGen is a robust and reliable studio system that allows for easy interaction by the RJs. As backbone for the business and commercial aspect of the operation serves Airwaves Traffic. Airwaves Traffic is a flexible, comprehensive software package that manages the booking, scheduling and billing of all commercial content for a radio station. It allows for a centralized structure as demanded by modern media groups, but at the same time handles localized and customized scheduling of spots for each individual station. Although each can operate independently, NexGen and Airwaves are highly integrated which ensures reliable and economic operation. Says Rupali Khanna, Chief Technical Officer for Radio Mantra: “We have successfully launched our eight FM stations with NexGen as automation system in sync with Airwaves for traffic scheduling from RCS and the complete setup has really helped us in optimizing our operations with a lot of flexibility. The process of installation and maintenance of NexGen has been very systematic and user-friendly and our technical team finds no difficulty in managing the infrastructure. Both systems help us maintaining 24x7 broadcasting uptime and customizing the automation software as per our programmer’s requirement.” 40
November 2007 | Radio Duniya
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The Indian Journey Other Voices: The struggle for Community Radio in India Authors : Vinod Pavarala and Kanchan K Malik Published by: Sage Publications India, New Delhi 2007 ISBN: 978-0-7619-3602-2 (HB) Pages: 320, Year of publication: 2007, Price: INR 650 Communications Professor and Dean at the Sarojini Naidu School of Communication at the University of Hyderabad, Vinod Pavarala and Lecturer, Kanchan K Malik have put together several years of struggle for community radio in India. The state has been very reluctant to open up the airwaves. Contextualising the historical struggle for providing hope to give voices to the marginalised communities, the importance of community media as an alternative media for social development has been established in this book. The struggle has been a long and extended one, and different innovators of mass media for development have come together in this struggle to reform the policy. The process of creating appropriate framework for policy making, the networking and experimentation to establish the value of community radio as a tool for development, the creation of networks and consultations to advocate for an effective policy change began as a struggle by NGOs in India way back in 1995, took 11 years to take shape as a policy released by Government of India in December 1996. The authors have conducted extensive research, met with the practitioners of various alternative media experiments, including narrowcasting and participatory communication experiments, and used the last seven years to put together an excellent research and analysis of the community radio movement in India. Even when the FM licences opened up to private operators, the airwave boom has been marked by a cacophony of mindless jabber amidst the domination of non-stop Bollywood film music and advertising, with little or no programming of either relevance or significance to reflect the diverse communities that live in India. The research work focussed on the need to 44
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
revitalise the civil society, the conditions that will create the conducive environment, and challenges of the policy formulation itself. The critical issues that have been well researched in this book cover the social, cultural, economic and political dynamics and constraints that affected the community radio movement. Using qualitative case study methodology, focus group meetings and interviews, and drawing upon secondary research with over 257 references. Extensive analysis of the policies in Australia, Ireland, South Africa, Canada, USA has helped to draw lessons on the strategy for policy making in India. The authors examine the definition of community radio; the licensing procedure; the allocation of frequency and technical parameters; sustainability/funding issues; management and ownership; programme content; and regulation and monitoring. A significant indication of popular resistance to the power structures and hegemony of the state to control the minds of people, the four detailed case studies presented in their fourth chapter include the ‘Chalo Ho Gaon Mein’, the AID project in Daltonganj (Jharkhand) supported by National Foundation for India, ‘Ujjas Radio’ project of KMVS in Bhuj (Gujarat) with technical and creative collaboration of Drishtee Media Collective, the ‘Namma Dhwani’ project of VOICES and MYRADA supported by UNESCO in Budhikote (Karnataka) and the ‘Women speak to women’ UNESCO supported project of DDS in Pastapur (Andhra Pradesh). The participatory communication projects studied are all endeavouring to put radio stations run by communities at the heart of development. The tools and processes used have not only a development focus but also aim to conserve the traditional knowledge, practices and culture of these communities. Community radio is a means, but not an end in itself, and enabler of participatory development and communications. The strength of the case studies is that they establish the value of empowering and giving voices to the voiceless and poor. The last three chapters address the need to revitalise the civil society and create greater awareness among them; addressing the gender dimension of community radio and finally the opportunities and challenges for the community radio movement in India. The book has an extensive and well documented annexes which helps the reader with five valuable dossiers. This valuable book is a must read for all those interested in media for the marginalised communities and the impact on grassroots development in India. Jayalakshmi Chittoor jchittoor@csdms.in www.radioduniya.in
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Giving Voice to the Community Broadcasting in India is in the process of seeing a sea-change. Indian radio is currently changing from being a government monopoly to a highly-commercialized space. But this media needs to be democratized too. Privatization and deregulation will not mean much to the average citizen if radio fails to get a chance to play a vital role in their lives. So far public service, community, educational and development broadcast networks have not been given their due; but some NGOs have taken it up on themselves to provide some communities with a space to voice their thoughts. The Ministry for Information & Broadcasting has approved the applications of seven NGOs to set up community radio systems of about 140 applications they had originally received. The NGOs that now have the licence from the Inter Ministerial Committee to set up community radio stations include: Development Alternatives, New Delhi Alternative for India Development (AID), Chennai Deccan Development Society (DDS), Hyderabad Indian Society of Agri-Business Professionals (ISAP), New Delhi Mannvikas Samajik Sansthan (MVSS), Satara, Maharashtra The Energy Research Institute of India (TERI), New Delhi The Mysore Resettlement and Development Agency (MYRADA), Bangalore The main objectives of setting up a community radio are to create a platform through which the issues of the communities could be heard; to bridge the divide that has emerged due to rapid growth of ICT in cities only, and to use ICT for rural development through a Community Radio Centre; to generate majority of content with the participation of the community and in this process create leadership skills in them; to reflect special interests, needs and to generate demand for solution related to the women and the marginalized issues; to reach the remote areas of the country and to create a platform for rural transformation; to generate such content that should be of immediate relevance to the community; to document the traditions and culture of the community; to promote and protect rich cultural and linguistic heritage of the people; to be editorially independent of government, communal, cast and political parties; to cater to the needs of local communities; to entertain the rural people.
Development Alternatives (DA) Development Alternatives (DA), established in 1983 and based in New Delhi, is a non-profit organisation engaged in research and action for sustainable development. The activities of Development Alternatives Group broadly cover the three primary areas that underlie any form of sustainable development process: the design and large scale dissemination of appropriate technologies, environmental management systems and effective people-oriented institutions and policies. Development Alternatives and its associate organisations operate on the philosophy that sustainable development benefits not only the economy, but also the environment and above all the people. The Development Alternatives group is, dedicated to bringing about a better balance among the basic pre-requisites of sustainable development: social equity, environmental quality and economic efficiency. DA has realized that community development involves the empowering of local people through the provision of information and skills as well the 46
development of a community identity. Therefore, the critical issue is the provision and appropriation by local communities of ICTs – as a development tool. The cheapest and the most effective one is Community Radio Services (CRS). Community Radio is pioneering in social change communication that is interactive and participative.
Alternative for India Development (AID) Alternative for India Development (AID) founded in the year 1982, in Chennai, is a national level NGO that emerged as an umbrella organisation for several small community organisations. It is committed to creating a mass movement for overhauling the social system to free the society from the grip of mass problems. Its ideological basis is grass roots democracy consisting of non-violence, decentralisation, egalitarianism and anti-casteism. AID initially started its works in the states of Bihar, which was then bifurcated into Jharkhand, and the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Now it has expanded its activities covering the states of Jharkhand, Chattisgarh, Orissa, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. For strategic reasons the headquarters and central training center is based in Chennai. December 2007 | Radio Duniya
Deccan Development Society (DDS) Deccan Development Society (DDS) of Hyderabad is a grassroots organization working with Sangams (village level groups) of poor women, most of whom are Dalits. The UNESCO has recognized the long services rendered by the DDS in the region
with regard to empowerment and education of the poorest of the poor women and facilitated funding for establishing a radio station in Machnoor village. The DDS projects to establish a community radio is perfectly in accordance with the global recognition of the need to democratize the media of communication. As a further example of the strength of this NGO is that, the DDS women, in another remarkable initiative, have shown that given an opportunity, they can bring a new vision to the concept of media. Transcending their barriers of non-literacy, the DDS group of women has produced successful videos to raise dialogues with their sanghams and inform the outside world of the accomplishments of their fellow women. A stunning film, The Sangham Shot, produced with more than 75% contribution of visuals and sounds from these women, has made an impression the world over. Their compelling statements on why they should have a media of their own are forcing
the academic and development world to rethink media policies. The Society for Development Alternatives, New Delhi Development Alternatives established in 1983 is a non-profit organization engaged in research and action for sustainable development. The activities of Development Alternatives Group broadly cover the three primary areas that underlie any form of sustainable development process: the design and large-scale dissemination of appropriate technologies, environmental management systems and effective peopleoriented institutions and policies. Development Alternatives and its associate organisations operate on the philosophy that sustainable development benefits not only the economy, but also the environment and above all - the people. The Development Alternatives Group is, therefore, dedicated to bring about a better balance among the basic prerequisites of sustainable development: social equity, environmental quality and economic efficiency. Contact 111/9-Z, Kishangarh, Vasant Kunj New Delhi - 110070 Tel : 91 (11) 2613-4103, 2689-0380 Fax : 91 (11) 2613-0817 Email : tara@devalt.org Web: http://www.devalt.org/sites.htm In the year 2001, the video and radio women formed themselves into a rural women’s media collective known as the DDS Community Media Trust. Some of the recent films of the Community Media Trust include: Why are Warangal Farmers Angry with Bt Cotton - (Which has been translated into French, Thai and German); Future of Agriculture : (A South Asia - Canada Dialouge); Water, Life and Livelihood; Ten Women and a Camera; A Radio of their own; Bt Cotton in Andhra Pradesh - (a three year fraud); In the Lap of Pachamama, Bhootalli, Mother Earth; A Disaster in Search of Success – Bt cotton in Global South. Behind each of these programmes is a basic philosophy, which ensures that all activities have the total participation of the community concerned, particularly the women. Using Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) methodologies as a basic tool, each of the DDS programmes ensures that the community starts with the understanding of their conditions and DDS only acts as a catalyst to guide the community into those activities that the community decides to pursue.
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Alternative for India Development, Chennai Alternative for India Development (AID) founded in the year 1982 is a national level NGO that emerged as an umbrella organisation for several small community organisations. It was committed to creating a mass movement for overhauling the social system to free the society from the grip of mass problems. Its ideological basis is grass roots democracy consisting of non-violence, decentralisation, egalitarianism and anticasteism. AID initially started its works in the states of Bihar which was then bifurcated into Jharkhand and the sourthern state of T.Nadu. Now it has expanded its activities covering the states of Jharkhand,Bihar, Uttar Pradesh ,Chattisgarh,Orissa and T.Nadu. For strategic reasons the headquarters and central training center is based in Chennai. Contact Plot No.1 V.G.N. Nagar, Iyyapanthangal, Chennai 600 056. Phone: 044-6272336, 6490014 Fax : 044-6272340 Email: aidindia@btinternet.com aidindia1@vsnl.com Web: http://www.aidindia.net/index.htm
Indian Society of Agribusiness Professionals (ISAP) Indian Society of Agribusiness Professionals (ISAP) based in the capital, is a non-governmental, notfor-profit organisation, incorporated in 2001 under Section 25 of the Indian Companies Act. ISAP has
been in agricultural and rural developmental sector for over five years to bring about a positive change in the livelihood of the rural community, especially small and marginal farmers mainly by undertaking various livelihood promotion activities in publicprivate partnership mode and as implementing agency for government supported-programmes. The organisation is a network of agriculture and allied sector professionals in India and the SAARC countries encompassing over 15,000 48
members, including 1500 Agri-Experts, about 1700 Disseminators, 400 Partner NGOs, over 800 Industrial Users, more than 1000 Researchers, 200 Chapter Coordinators and a large number of Agriculture Journalists amongst others. ISAP has been constituted and managed by professionals with vast experience and expertise in planning and policy formulation, supervising large-scale agro-economic survey and feasibility studies, formulation and designing the capacity building programme, agricultural business management, providing agri-extension services, monitoring and evaluation of agriculture and its allied sector viz., value addition of the non-timber forest produce (NTFP) like medicinal and aromatic plants, honey, high value fruits as well as social sector programmes/schemes at district, state and national levels. ISAP deals with price monitoring updates and provides information on medicinal and aromatic plants in association with National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), New Delhi. The outreach of the organization spreads across rural India through network of regional coordinators Deccan Development Society, Hyderabad Deccan Development Society (DDS) is a grassroots organization working with Sangams (village level groups) of poor women, most of who are Dalits. DDS in Zaheerabad (Medak dist), Andhra Pradesh proposes the setting up of a community radio station. The UNESCO has recognized the long services rendered by the DDS in the region with regard to empowerment and education of the poorest of the poor women and facilitated funding for establishing a radio station in Machnoor village. The DDS projects to establish a community radio is perfectly in accordance with the global recognition of the need to democratise the media of communication. The media-related activities undertaken by the DDS are in the Zaheerabad, nearby Hyderabad. The poor dalit women who are members of the DDS sangams have their own expectations from a radio of their own. They have suggested that a radio of their own would provide more effectively a medium for articulating locally relevant issues, in their own language, and in their own time. Contact A-6, Meera Apartments Basheer Bagh Hyderabad - 500029 Andhra Pradesh Tel: 91-40-23222867 , 40-23222260 Email: ddshyd@hd1.vsnl.net.in Website:http://www.ngosindia.com/ http://www.ddsindia.org.in/www/radiostn.htm
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
Indian Society for Agribusiness Professionals, New Delhi Indian Society of Agribusiness Professionals ( ISAP) is registered as a Not-for-Profit Company under the Companys’ Act 1956. It aims to create a a large network of Agri-business Professionals in India and other SAARC countries with a view to enhancing the rural incomes in India by enabling access to appropriate agricultural technologies and market intelligence to the masses living in the hinterlands of India and the SAARC region. Contact ISAP, E12, Greater Kailash I, New Delhi-110 048 E-mail: isap@vsnl.net Web: http://www.isapindia.org
Dr. K L Chadha Chairman. ISAP
placed at district level and chapter coordinators - functional at village levels. The five regional offices of ISAP, in the different zones of the country (North, North-East, West, South, Central) facilitate efficient implementation of livelihood generating activities.
Mann Vikas Samajik Sanstha (MVSS) Mann Vikas Samajik Sanstha (MVSS), of Satara in Maharashtra, is an NGO established in the year 1994. MVSS seeks to improve the quality of life for women and their families living in the rural areas of western Maharashtra. To achieve this, MVSS runs various projects through a partnership with its sister organization, the Mann Deshi Mahila Sah. Bank (MDMSB), a registered microfinance co-operative bank. MVSS also works closely with
Chetna Sinha in SHG meeting
the Mann Deshi Mahila Bachat Gat Federation, or Federation of Self-Help Groups.
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It is their mission to provide women in the drought-prone areas of Maharashtra with the tools necessary for achieving financial independence and self sufficiency. They believe that the financial empowerment of women will hasten the growth and development of rural India, thereby creating a better life for future generations. Mandeshi’s main target is continually improve its financial products and services to satisfy the needs of it’s customers better, especially mandeshi mahila sahyog Bank M a n n v i ka s S a m a j i k S a n s t h a , S a t a r a , Maharashtra Mann Vikas Samajik Sanstha (MVSS), an NGO established in the year 1994, MVSS seeks to improve the quality of life of women and their families living in the rural areas of western Maharashtra. To achieve this, MVSS runs various projects through a partnership with its sister organization, the Mann Deshi Mahila Bank (MDMB), a registered microfinance bank. MVSS also works closely with the Mann Deshi Mahila Bachat Gat Federation, or Federation of Self-Help Groups. Contact Ms. Chetna Gala Sinha Jain Mandir Rd., Mahiwar Chowk, District Satara State Maharashtra Web: www.manndeshi.org h t t p : / / w w w. a i d p r o j e c t s . o r g / n g o s - v i e w 1.asp?id=312&login=guest
Chetna Gala Sinha Founder and Chair MannDeshi Mahila Sah. Bank Ltd. Mhaswad
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The Energy & Resource Institute, New Delhi The Energy and Resource Institute (TERI) was conferred with Community Radio licence for its plan to build its radio station in Mukteshwar in Suti, Uttarakhand involving farmers and the youth of local communities in creating the right and region specific content for the radio station. Dissemination of education and agriculture-based information will be its focus area. TERI also hopes to contribute to the already robust community training programme in the country. Established in 1974, TERI has developed a far sighted vision to deal acute problems that mankind is to face on account of the gradual depletion of the earth’s finite energy resources which are largely non-renewable and also on account of the existing methods of their use which are polluting. The Institute has grown substantially over the years, particularly, since it launched its own research activities and established a base in New Delhi, its registered headquarters. Over the years, the Institute has developed a conducive and dynamic environment that seeks solutions to global problems in the fields of energy, environment and current patterns of development. TERI’s philosophy essentially banks on entrepreneurial skills to create benefits for society through the development and dissemination of intellectual property. It also stresses on identifying and articulating intellectual challenges cutting across a number of disciplines of knowledge besides encouraging research, training and demonstration projects leading to development of specific problem-based advanced technologies that help to carry benefits to society at large. Contact General Darbari Seth Block, IHC Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi - 110 003, INDIA Tel. (+91 11) 2468 2100 and 41504900 Fax (+91 11) 2468 2144 and 2468 2145 Email: mailbox@teri.res.in
will provide financial service to women from poor and marginalized community and will provide them on the time and every time defect free financial products & services.
The Energy and Resource Institute (TERI) The Energy and Resource Institute (TERI) established in 1974 with the headquarters in New Delhi, has developed a far sighted vision to deal with acute problems that mankind is to face on account of the gradual depletion of the earth’s finite energy resources which are largely nonrenewable and also on account of the existing methods of their use which are polluting. Over the years, the Institute has developed a conducive and dynamic environment that seeks solutions to global problems in the fields of energy, environment and current patterns of development. TERI’s philosophy essentially banks on entrepreneurial skills to create benefits for society through the development and dissemination of intellectual property. It also stresses on identifying and articulating intellectual challenges cutting across a number of disciplines of knowledge besides encouraging research, training and demonstration projects leading to development of specific problem-based advanced technologies that help to carry benefits to society at large.
Mysore Resettlement and Development Agency (MYRADA) Mysore Resettlement and Development Agency (MYRADA) of Bangalore is an NGO that has had extensive experience in incubating, developing and managing savings and credit programmes in Southern India. Realizing the shortcomings and inadequacies of the existing system of delivery of formal credit to the poor, Myrada experimented with many local institutional arrangements in providing credit delivery systems to the very poor. These included local cooperatives, rural bank branches, Voluntary Development Agencies among others.
Media Communications comm@teri.res.in Web: http://www.teriin.org/about.php
Recently MYRADA has been allotted Community Radio license by the Ministry, which it hopes will help the organization to disseminate information to all levels of community. 50
December 2007 | Radio Duniya
2008 India's Premier Conference on Radio Industry
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Ministry of Information & Broadcasting
11-12 February 2008 InterContinental The Grand, New Delhi
For details visit: www.radioduniya.in mail at: talk2us@radioduniya.in Contact: Bharti Malhotra +91-9818300368