Bridging Policy and People: Community Radio Key to Last Mile Connectivity, Says ADG PIB

Paperman Media ( Bhubaneswar )-  Shri Akhil Kumar Mishra, Additional Director General, Press Information Bureau (PIB), Bhubaneswar, today visited Radio Bhubaneswar (89.2 FM),  a community radio station located at Ranga Bazar on the outskirts of the city. He was warmly received by the Station Head, Shri Subrat Pati, who briefed him on the functioning of the station, its programming, and outreach initiatives. During the visit, the ADG also interacted with the team to gain deeper insights into its community engagement efforts.

The ADG highlighted that community radio plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between policy formulation and its effective delivery to citizens. Emphasising the significance of last-mile connectivity, he noted that communication attains real value only when it reaches the intended beneficiaries in a clear, accessible, and relatable manner.

Referring to Odisha’s growing footprint in the community radio sector, Shri Mishra observed that such platforms have emerged as effective instruments for disseminating information on government schemes and developmental initiatives at the grassroots level. He stated that community radio, by catering to local languages, cultural contexts, and specific community needs, significantly enhances awareness and public participation.

He further underscored the importance of trust and feedback in the communication process, noting that community radio facilitates two-way interaction and enables authorities to better understand local concerns and aspirations. This participatory approach, he added, strengthens governance and supports more responsive and inclusive policy implementation.

The visit reaffirmed the importance of leveraging community radio as a powerful medium for inclusive communication and outreach, contributing to the broader objective of ensuring that government initiatives effectively reach every section of society.