World Radio Day being observed across the globe today

World Radio Day is being observed today. The Day is observed on 13th February every year to commemorate the establishment of the United Nations Radio in 1946.

The theme this year is “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a tool, not a voice.” To mark World Radio Day 2026, Akashvani Raipur, Chhattisgarh, in collaboration with UNESCO, is organising a World Radio Day Conclave today.

The conclave is centred on the official theme and will deliberate on how AI can strengthen content creation, audience engagement and accessibility while preserving the human voice at the core of radio broadcasting.

The theme “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a tool, not a voice” underscores the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in the broadcasting ecosystem. It highlights how AI can enhance content production, archiving, translation, audience engagement and accessibility, making radio more efficient and inclusive.

At the same time, the theme emphasises that technology must remain a support system, not a substitute for the human voice, editorial judgement and credibility that define radio.

Akashvani correspondent reports that Akashvani has been serving the nation since its inception with the motto “Bahujan Hitaya, Bahujan Sukhaya”.

Established in 1936 and brought under public ownership after Independence, Akashvani has grown into one of the largest broadcasting organisations in the world, in terms of the number of languages broadcast and the diversity of audiences served.

Private FM radio complements public broadcasting by delivering local entertainment and information across urban and regional India.

In his message on the occasion of World Radio Day, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr L Murugan said radio plays a crucial role in disseminating information to the common people. He also recounted listening to the radio while growing up.

As Raipur gears up to host World Radio Day 2026, avid radio listeners from Narayanpur district of Bastar division of Chhattisgarh spoke to Akashvani about their fondness for radio as an informative medium that has led to development in the region.

Radio is intimate yet expansive, simple yet powerful. Radio is a trusted medium, connecting distant geographies, diverse languages and countless lives through shared listening.

On World Radio Day, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan extended his greetings to radio listeners and everyone who works to strengthen the broadcasting ecosystem. In a social media post, he said that radio continues to inform, connect, and give a voice across generations, as it evolves through digital platforms and podcasts.

He urged people to celebrate radio’s enduring relevance and the collective efforts that keep it vibrant and accessible to all.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his greetings on World Radio Day today. In a social media post, he said that the day is meant to acknowledge the efforts of all those associated with the medium.

He stated that World Radio Day celebrates a medium that serves as a trusted voice for people, whether in remote villages or bustling cities.

He noted that over the years, radio has delivered timely information, amplified talent, and encouraged creativity. Referring to his Mann Ki Baat programme, Mr Modi said that through Mann Ki Baat, he has experienced the potential of radio in bringing out the societal strength of the people.

The Prime Minister has also invited citizens to share their inputs for the upcoming Mann Ki Baat programme, which will take place on the 22nd of this month.