NUAPADA: Radio Swayashakti, the first community radio of western Odisha, was launched in Khariar in the district by Principal Secretary, Rural Development, Madhusudan Padhi on Thursday.
The community radio will initially have a coverage radius of 30 kms with the transmitter based at Khariar and will be gradually be expanded to other areas based on its popularity.
Speaking on the occasion, Padhi said community radio will play a big role in development of rural population in coming days. It can also transcend the literacy barrier, he added.
Deputy Director Agriculture, Nuapada, Umesh Chandra Das said agriculture extension will get a boost through programmes on awareness about modern farming technique, cropping pattern, better productivity and higher income.
CEO of Radio Swayamshakti, Biswajit Padhi informed that they have planned to reach every person through radio to increase the self esteem of the people.
The radio will have programmes on health, education, culture besides agriculture. It will promote scientific culture and energise youth. Initially programmes have been lined up for broadcast for seven hours a day with a well equipped studio.