Indian Radio Personalities and Development Communication
RJ Malishka Mendonsa: Mumbai’s Socially Responsible RJ
- Popular radio jockey associated with Red FM 93.5, Mumbai.
- Hosts the famous morning show, “Morning No.1 with Malishka.”
- Known for an energetic, humorous, bold, and relatable on-air style.
- Combines music, comedy, civic issues, and listener interaction.
- Aims to “feel the pulse of the city” by addressing urban life and problems.
- Represents the evolution of the RJ from announcer to social influencer.
- Uses radio as a platform for public awareness and social campaigns.
- Actively raises issues like potholes, voting awareness, and civic responsibility.
- Engages listeners as participants, not just audiences.
- Recognized for fearless commentary and public engagement.
- Received top honor at the Maharashtra Radio Fest (2025).
- Her career shows how commercial FM radio can be socially responsible.
- Acts as a bridge between society, citizens, and authorities.
- An important example of modern radio journalism in India.
Radio Mewat: Community Radio and Rural Empowerment
- A community radio station serving the Mewat region of Haryana.
- Operates on a grassroots and participatory communication model.
- Content is created by and for local community members.
- Focuses on agriculture, health, education, culture, and government schemes.
- Gives voice to marginalized and rural populations.
- Encourages community participation as producers, technicians, and decision-makers.
- Strengthens democratic access to media in rural areas.
- Acts as a link between villagers and local authorities.
- Helps in problem-solving through dialogue and information sharing.
- Promotes awareness, social discussion, and cultural identity.
- Uses local language and local context for better understanding.
- Bridges information gaps where internet access and literacy are limited.
- Acts as an agent of social change and empowerment.
Kisanvani: AIR’s Agricultural Development Initiative
An agricultural radio program by All India Radio (AIR), launched in 2004 under the narrowcasting initiative. It is aimed at empowering farmers through useful information and is broadcast from AIR rural FM stations across India.
Focus Areas and Impact
- Focuses primarily on modern farming practices and rural development.
- Covers areas like:
- Agriculture and horticulture
- Animal husbandry
- Fisheries and allied activities
- Provides daily weather reports and market prices.
- Features interviews with successful farmers.
- Broadcast in regional languages for accessibility.
- Connects scientific knowledge with practical farming.
- Acts as the “voice of farmers.”
- Helps improve livelihoods and agricultural productivity.
- Demonstrates AIR’s role in development communication and public service broadcasting.
Structured Segments
- Aaj Ki Khabrein: Daily news
- Aaj Ka Bazar: Market rates
- Aaj Ka Mausam: Weather
- Aaj Ke Kisan: Farmer stories