World Radio Day 2023: History, Significance, Theme and some interesting facts. Read here

Radio has been the long-standing medium of expression and most influential mass media. This day is celebrated with different broadcasts, online activities, community events and awards.

History and significance

On Nov 3, 2011, UNESCO declared February 13 as World Radio Day because on this day United Nations Radio was first established in 1946. It is observed to preserve the importance of radio as well as to encourage decision makers to provide access to information through radio. UNESCO coordinates World Radio Day activities on a global scale with UN member countries through their radio stations.

Theme

The theme for World Radio Day 2023 is ‘Radio and Peace’ which focuses on the role of radio as an independent medium of peace making. The sub-theme of the day are ‘Radio in Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding’ and ‘Support to Independent Radio’.

Facts about Radio

1. The first-ever radio transmission was made on May 13, 1897 by Guglielmo Marconi.

2. The first ever radio broadcast in India happened in June 1923 by Radio Club of Bombay.

3. India has around 479 radio stations making All India Radio one of the biggest broadcasters in the world. It covers around 99.19% of the Indian population.

FAQ

1. Which is the first radio broadcaster in India?
The Radio Club of Bombay is the first radio broadcaster in India.

2. Which is the government owned radio station in India?
All India Radio (AIR) is the government owned radio station.