Community Radio (CR) is a local broadcasting service that empowers communities by providing a platform to air their voices on local issues. Unlike national broadcasters such as Akashwani or private FM stations, CRs are low-power FM stations (covering 5–10 km radius) that are owned, set up, and operated by non-profit, community-based organizations. They emphasize access, participation, and representation, addressing the socio-economic, cultural, and developmental needs of local populations.
Policy Background
- Initial Policy (2002):
The Government of India approved licenses for setting up CRs, primarily targeting established educational institutions (e.g., IITs, IIMs). - Policy Broadening (2006):
The ambit was expanded to include non-profit organizations such as civil society groups, voluntary organizations, registered societies, public charitable trusts, NGOs, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and ICAR institutions to promote broader participation in development and social change. - Current Status:
As of 28.05.2024, there are 495 operational CR stations across India.
The Scheme
- Name & Duration:
“Supporting Community Radio Movement in India” is a Central Sector Scheme approved in 2012 and extended from 2021-22 to 2025-26. - Financial Outlay:
The scheme has an outlay of ₹50 Crores. - Mandate:
To strengthen both new and existing CR stations by providing resources, capacity building, and technology upgrades, especially in remote and rural areas. This is aimed at promoting socio-economic and cultural development through effective social mobilization. - Promotion:
The government has organized various workshops, webinars, and regional/national summits (Sammelans) to promote awareness and facilitate peer learning among stakeholders.
Benefits
- Financial Assistance:
Once a Community Radio Station (CRS) is operational (with a valid license from the Government of India), the scheme provides financial assistance to support its functioning and growth. - Encouragement:
The scheme encourages community-based organizations to set up CRs in the larger public interest.
Eligibility Criteria
An organization applying to operate a Community Radio Station must adhere to the following principles:
- Non-profit Status:
It should be explicitly constituted as a ‘non-profit’ organization with a proven record of at least three years serving the local community. - Community Focus:
The CRS must be designed to serve a specific, well-defined local community. - Ownership & Management:
The structure should reflect the community that the CRS serves. - Relevant Programming:
Broadcast content must address the educational, developmental, social, and cultural needs of the community. - Legal Entity:
The organization must be registered under the Societies Act or a similar applicable law. - NGO Darpan Registration:
NGOs, registered societies, and public charitable trusts must be registered on NITI Aayog’s NGO Darpan portal and provide their Unique ID with the application.
Exclusions
- The scheme is not generic; it is only for organizations that have been granted permission or a license by the Government of India to operate a Community Radio Station.
Application Process (Online)
- Visit the Official Portal:
- Access the official portal designated for the scheme.
- Follow Instructions:
- Adhere to the provided guidelines and complete the online registration/application process.
- Submit Application:
- Upload all required documents along with the processing fee.
Documents Required
- Registration Certificate:
- Copy of the registration certificate (translation in Hindi/English if in another language).
- Memorandum of Association/Bye Laws:
- Copy along with translation if needed.
- Financial Documents:
- Complete balance sheets with auditor’s report for the previous 3 years.
- Service Area Details:
- Map of the service area.
- Organizational Profile:
- Profile of the organization.
- Community Profile:
- Profile of the community residing within a 10 km radius of the CRS location.
- Location Details:
- Geo-coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the proposed antenna placement.
- Governing Body Details:
- Information on all governing body members in the prescribed format.
- Processing Fee:
- Rs. 2,500/-
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Who can apply for financial assistance?
Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations such as educational institutions, NGOs, registered societies, public charitable trusts, and similar entities that operate or plan to operate a Community Radio Station. -
I am an NGO. Can I apply for financial assistance?
Yes, NGOs registered on the NGO Darpan portal are eligible to apply. -
How do I obtain a license for Community Radio?
Licenses are granted by the Government of India. Organizations must ensure they have the necessary permissions/licenses before applying under this scheme.