India Through the Mic of Community Radios
Why Newsreel Asia Launched The Podcast Series ‘Radio Local: Community Radio Narratives’
Commentary
Feb. 3, 2024
Photo: Courtesy Yerala Vani Community Radio
In a world yearning for journalism that is fair, precise and diverse, the role of on-the-ground community radio journalists who closely understand their people and challenges is indispensable. Every day, these extraordinary local reporters engage with their neighbours, friends and other residents recording issues faced by small-town India.
National news often focuses on problems affecting the country as a whole, ignoring hurdles specific to smaller regions. For instance, public transport continues to hurt the mobility of women in a village in Maharashtra. There’s only one bus that turns up and there’s no fixed time for its arrival. Isn’t that appalling? These are the kind of stories that these local journalists spotlight. They bring varied perspectives, highlighting the diversity within a country that shapes its overall character.
This is why Newsreel Asia considers it a huge privilege to collaborate with India’s community radios through our podcast series called Radio Local. There are nearly 600 community radio stations across the country. The series, supported by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, goes beyond mere reporting to standing a step behind and learning from local journalists who are deeply invested in the issues of their community.
In the first season, we brought our listeners stories from South India, addressing human-wildlife conflicts, malnutrition, teacher shortages, drawbacks of conventional farming and fish farming. This season, we deliberately chose a solution-oriented approach, actively seeking answers.
Each story, crafted with the support of these reporters, aims to promote dignity and precision in the practice of journalism, with many local women journalists leading the way in narrative change.
Consider Nita Patil from Radio Yeralvani from Sangli in Maharashtra.
Nita tai is how I refer to her. Tai means elder sister in Marathi. Nita tai along with her colleagues, travelled over three hours to report on a remarkable women-only e-bike taxi service. This isn’t about detached observation; it’s about immersing oneself in the heart of the narrative.
Then, there’s Anuja Mulay of Radio Nagar in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. She was instrumental in supporting interviews featuring an extraordinary young woman born with HIV. Attending her marriage ceremony became a profound experience for both Anuja and me. It felt like we were witnessing a revolution. These shared encounters elevate Radio Local from a series to an emotional collective journey.
The podcast goes beyond highlighting challenges; it spotlights the resilience and ingenuity of these communities.
Integral to this initiative is Radio Local Talk, an offshoot interview series amplifying these voices. It’s where you can listen to these community radio journalists offer nuanced insights into the challenges, dreams and triumphs within these small towns and villages.
What sets Radio Local apart is its unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling. Each community radio station serves as a storyteller, effortlessly and honestly telling you their unique tales.
Join us in celebrating Radio Local – not just a bridge between urban and rural, but a vehicle for unheard voices and a champion of authenticity. In every small town and village, a story eagerly awaits. Thanks to India’s amazing community radio journalists, these narratives are now available in English and local languages, connecting us to the heart and soul of India.
