Srinagar: Akashvani Srinagar on Tuesday organised a grand musical concert at its auditorium hall to commemorate 90 years of broadcasting, with artists, broadcasters, cultural personalities and listeners participating in the celebrations.
The musical evening featured performances by noted Kashmiri musicians Waheed Jeelani, Manzoor Ahmad Shah and Shafi Sopori, who presented traditional and contemporary Kashmiri music.
Among those present on the occasion were Col. Sambit Das, Anil Yadav, Anurag Bishnoi, Satish Vimal and Abdul Rehman Bhat, besides former radio personalities, broadcasters and artists associated with the institution.
Speaking on the occasion, Gurbinder Singh, Deputy Director General and Cluster Head, highlighted the contribution of Akashvani towards nation building during the last nine decades.
He said the broadcaster had witnessed several important milestones in modern Indian history and played a crucial role in shaping public discourse and strengthening the democratic and cultural fabric of the country.
Referring to Kashmir, he said Akashvani Srinagar had made significant contributions towards preservation and promotion of Kashmiri language, literature, music, art and culture.
He added that Akashvani Srinagar has established a strong transmitter network covering the entire Kashmir Valley and areas across the Line of Control and continues to broadcast news bulletins in major languages and dialects spoken in the region.
Officials said Akashvani currently operates a network of 591 stations across the country, covering nearly 92 percent of India’s geographical area and reaching 99.2 percent of the population.
The broadcaster produces programmes daily in 23 languages and 184 dialects covering sectors such as health, agriculture, music, education, youth affairs, culture and public awareness.
They added that Akashvani has also expanded its digital presence through social media platforms, the NewsOnAir app, Waves OTT platform and DTH services to connect with younger audiences.
Head of Programme Ghulam Rasool Akhoon also addressed the gathering and spoke about the emotional bond shared by the people of Kashmir with Akashvani Srinagar.
He said the institution remains committed to providing credible information, quality entertainment and culturally enriching content to its listeners.
He further observed that despite challenges posed by the evolving media landscape, radio continues to reinvent itself and regain relevance in the digital age through digital streaming, social media integration and community-centric programming.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks and a renewed commitment towards strengthening public service broadcasting and preserving Kashmir’s cultural heritage through inclusive programming.
