This week, on February 13, the world celebrated World Radio Day, so, we devoted this edition of Listeners\u2019 Letterbox to this day and to RRI\u2019s wonderful radio listeners all over the world who have started sending us messages about the significance of radio in their lives as early as January. We thank you all for your wonderful, inspired contributions, text or audio messages, sent via e-mail, Facebook and WhatsApp, and, in today\u2019s program, we continue quoting from as many of your contributions as possible.<\/p>\n
We first thank our old friend from Denmark,\u00a0Hans Verner Lollike<\/strong>, our friend from India\u00a0Mr.\u00a0<\/strong>Anand Mohan Bain<\/strong>\u00a0and Mr.\u00a0Rasheed Naz<\/strong>, from Naz Radio Romania Internet Fan Club, Faisal Abad Pakistan, for the wonderful audio messages sent in on World Radio Day.<\/p>\n Please find below all the messages you, our listeners around the world, sent in on\u00a0World Radio Day 2024<\/strong>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cOh, well, just the word radio brings back bittersweet memories since my childhood. The magic and mystery of a voice and songs and music captivated my attention even though in my early years I did not understand but my native language and English. Every time I turned it on it felt like I was in another world, surrounded by mystery and imagination and the hope of one day visiting places. Little by little listening to various stations made me curious about other languages and I started understanding some key words and phrases ultimately leading me to learn a few of those languages. And by that time, I became knowledgeable of other cultures, their world, food, music, traditions and life. Slowly and as a consequence of radio listening, I became curious about its operation, leading me to acquire some knowledge of electronics. It was long before I made friendships around the world by listening to international radio stations and reading and collaborating with relative publications. Radio became my world, and I don’t see a substitute for it, as no television, no internet, no television, no newspaper can generate the same magic experience. Sure, habits change over the years, each new generation has different interests than the previous one but that has not eliminated the need and the pleasure of sitting down, a cup of tea on the side, maybe reading a newspaper but still listening to the news or even better to some music from faraway places. And you can do that without disturbing others by using headphones. You can do that away from home, under a tree, at the beach travelling, either to help you fall asleep or to remind you to wake up. Some say radio, especially international radio, which is owned by governments, offers biased news. Although that is not always the case, I like that simply because on the one hand I have learned to see when that is the case, on the other hand, I can tune to different stations and hear the same event from different angles of interest thus draw my conclusion on what the reality is!<\/p>\n Without a radio, I would not be able to do it even though the internet can offer a viable alternative which requires more time searching pages after pages and assuming there is a good signal, if there is one as it is the case quite often especially in isolated places. Not to mention the internet does not offer activities like the one I am participating in right now while at the same time it exposes someone to known risks. I use both but there is no comparison between the two.<\/p>\n Unfortunately, along with the changing habits and the new ways of getting the news and entertainment other things changed: radio manufacturers had to shift their investment to new gadgets, internet and shifted the way governments spread the news, radio stations saw their audience numbers falling and they dropped their broadcasts or ceased all together. A vicious cycle. But although some forecasters since the mid – to – late 90s saw the disappearance of radio by 2010 or 2020. It has not happened yet and I don’t see that happening, at least not to local stations, meanwhile some international stations have come to life. Who knows, radio may follow in the footsteps of LP records. \u2018Sed omnia\u00a0praeclara tan difficilia, quam\u00a0rara sunt\u2019. From the\u00a0world, with love.\u201d\u00a0(Fotios Padazopulos)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDear sir, WRD\u00a0February 13 marks a special day for the use of radio. Radio has been around for 100 years and is still going strong despite other means of media. Since the use of shortwave, my favorite band, is more and more becoming obsolete for some countries, I wish to point out that radio waves cannot not be easily stopped at borders. The information sent on the airwaves is free for receiving by anyone with a simple radio capable of receiving shortwave and can be done anonymously. Cheap (shortwave) radios are widely available in any country of the world, except a few countries. If you want unbiased information or information from a country direct, shortwave is still my first choice. I regret that more and more countries leave the shortwave bands as they think that the internet is a good replacement. It isn’t.\u00a0Yes, the internet is cheap and should be available worldwide, but it isn’t\u00a0anonymously or in many cases not accessible because of (geo)blockings. Receiving radio stations is\u00a0anonymous and free, giving people a (reasonable) chance of receiving information that otherwise would not be disclosed to them. Therefore, radio is still a very good, if not the best choice for receiving and disclosing information especially now with more and more regions in the world in turmoil.\u201d\u00a0(G\u00e9rard Koopal,\u00a0<\/strong>Almere, The Netherlands)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWORLD RADIO DAY 2024!\u00a0<\/strong>Indeed, one can derive a lot of pleasure from listening to radio stations, especially when one is thrilled or inspired by the program he or she is listening to. Of course, we cannot run away from the fact that the digital age met the analogue age of radio listenership around the world, and still most people enjoy listening to radio more than the digital age broadcasts.<\/p>\n In most Nigerian villages, towns or urban settlements radio has been playing a unique role, a role of getting listeners to have smiles and sometimes laughter on their faces. In some quarters, radio has been playing a role of joining relationships, and at times creating avenues for reunion between friends and family members globally.<\/p>\n Personally, radio has played a vital role in making me travel for adventures, travel to make new friends and meet new people in life, and through or courtesy of radio listenership I travelled all the way from Nigeria through to Europe and to Asia, aside travelling to some African countries. I made friends, I made contacts, I received a lot of souvenirs, and I made small stipends with the help of the radio. Also, I introduced a lot of friends, colleagues and loved ones into radio listenership, and they are thanking me and appreciating the idea from day one.<\/p>\n Radio has really helped and still helps in the exchange of cultures between countries, between individuals, between organizations, and it has also helped in guiding people to partake in developments and progress globally. I can say, radio has been a pride of many people both in the west, south, east, and north.<\/p>\n In my opinion, radio should be seen as a means of finding solutions to aggrieved nations, communities, and individuals globally especially through dialogue and in radio listenership. And since time immemorial, radio served great nations, people and individuals where considerable goals were achieved and written in history pages.<\/p>\n I enjoy listening to the radio, and I am proud to be a listener of radio stations and programs. In fact, I\u2019ve never regretted listening to radio programs.<\/p>\n Aside from listening to English programs in radio stations around the world, I listen to programs in Hausa (my mother-tongue) services of other radio stations both at home and abroad.<\/p>\n I see radio as a tool that served the past, still serving the present and shall continue to serve the future due to its innocence and calmness. May radio continue to serve humanity more and more in the future. Happy Radio Day 2024 To You All!\u201d Your Listener From Nigeria.\u201d(Mr.\u00a0<\/strong>Salisu<\/strong>\u00a0Muhammad<\/strong>\u00a0Dawanau)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThoughts on World Radio Day\u201d: \u201cWorld Radio Day is here again this year. On the occasion of this day, UNESCO invites the radio industry to focus on the three major highlights, which may also be a call to us. Among these three highlights the closest to us is probably the role of radio especially in times of disasters. The present day is said to be the age of internet. However, natural or man-made disasters, the internet sometimes becomes useless. Radio, on the other hand, can transmit information as long as the sender, receiver, and their equipment remain functional. Indeed, for example, radio has played an important role in the war in Ukraine and in floods and earthquakes around the world. To be prepared for such a situation, we should always familiarize ourselves with radio. Of course, I should, and I do.\u201d(Teruhiko Kachi, Nagoya, Japan)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Happy\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a02024.\u00a0<\/strong>World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day, recognized formally by the United Nations General Assembly on February 13th, 2011, is indeed a significant celebration highlighting the crucial role of\u00a0radio\u00a0as a medium of communication and expression.\u00a0Radio\u00a0has been instrumental in keeping people informed and connected, particularly in this digital age where internet\u00a0radio\u00a0streams enable listeners to stay in touch with\u00a0global\u00a0happenings regardless of their age or location.<\/p>\n The versatility of\u00a0radio\u00a0is unparalleled, offering a wide range of content from news and current affairs to culture, education, music, information, and knowledge. It serves as a platform where diverse voices can be heard, fostering inclusivity and understanding within communities. Moreover,\u00a0radio’s accessibility makes it a powerful tool for reaching populations in remote or marginalized areas where other forms of media may be limited or unavailable.<\/p>\n World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a0serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of\u00a0radio\u00a0in our lives and the need to continue supporting this invaluable medium as it evolves and adapts to the changing landscape of communication.<\/p>\n The versatility of\u00a0radio\u00a0is unparalleled, offering a wide range of content from news and current affairs to culture, education, music, information, and knowledge. It serves as a platform where diverse voices can be heard, fostering inclusivity and understanding within communities. Moreover,\u00a0radio’s accessibility makes it a powerful tool for reaching populations in remote or marginalized areas where other forms of media may be limited or unavailable.<\/p>\n World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a0serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of\u00a0radio\u00a0in our lives and the need to continue supporting this invaluable medium as it evolves and adapts to the changing landscape of communication.<\/p>\n Absolutely, the theme “Radio: A century informing, entertaining, and educating” beautifully captures the enduring significance of\u00a0radio\u00a0despite the advent of digital technologies. Over the past century,\u00a0radio\u00a0has proven to be a resilient medium, constantly adapting to changing times and technologies while remaining a vital source of information, entertainment, and education for audiences around the\u00a0world. Its ability to reach diverse audiences, often in remote or underserved areas, makes it a powerful tool for communication and community building. In today’s digital age,\u00a0radio\u00a0continues to evolve, leveraging new technologies and platforms to stay relevant and engaging.<\/p>\n World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a0celebrates the profound impact of\u00a0radio\u00a0in uniting people, providing education, information, and entertainment. In\u00a02024, the celebration is marked by various activities\u00a0worldwide, including exhibitions, special broadcasts, community events, awards, and online engagements. These events highlight the diverse ways in which\u00a0radio\u00a0enriches lives and fosters connections across communities. Here’s to a Happy\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a02024, celebrating the enduring power of this timeless medium.\u201d With Best Wishes, Amir Jameel.\u201d(Amir Jameel<\/strong>,\u00a0Sahiwal, Pakistan)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDear Friends at Radio Romania International: Greetings from Hyderabad, India!<\/p>\n World Radio Day has been celebrated on February 13 every year since 2012.\u00a0 Radio is a powerful medium for celebrating humanity in all its diversity and constitutes a platform for democratic discourse.\u00a0 In India, rural folk enjoy radio especially, which is part and parcel of life.<\/p>\n The theme for 2024 is \u201cRadio: A century informing, entertaining and educating.\u201d This theme perfectly highlights the remarkable history of radio, its relevant present, and the promising future to cater to the world with information, entertainment and educational content.<\/p>\n YOUNG STARS RADIO CLUB will organize a special program in India with the general public on this occasion on February 13.\u00a0On this occasion, we would like to share a few things about radio.<\/p>\n Past<\/strong>: Radio is part and parcel of rural folk in India.\u00a0 We have so many memories of the radio.\u00a0 When we wake up in the morning during the 70’s and 80\u2019s radio is the only media through which we come to know about the latest news updates in the local language.\u00a0 There will be news, inspiring devotional songs, youth programmes, farmers programmes and special interviews on the social developments.\u00a0 It enriches the knowledge of children by listening to various programmes through radio.\u00a0 Children of rural villages are lucky to have the radio as the special media.\u00a0 During my childhood I was inspired by the All India Radio Local AM Channel news, devotional and folk songs.<\/p>\n Present<\/strong>:<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0I started my hobby of Shortwave Radio listening during the early \u201880s with the Telugu language program of Radio Moscow Friends club.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Got my first QSL from Radio Prague.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Got DX Diploma from Radio Prague<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Member of BRT Listeners Club<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Member of Radio Berlin International Listeners Club.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Technical Monitor for WYFR, Family Radio.<\/p>\n Our Club YOUNG STARS RADIO CLUB is registered by VOA Listeners Clubs, Radio Veritas Asia, Deutsche Welle Hindi Service, Voice of Russa Hindi Service, RFI Listeners Clubs. With the support of RFI sometime back, we have organized awareness programs in local schools and distributed the pens to school children.<\/p>\n Future<\/strong>:\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0With advancements in technology, now we are able to listen to radio online.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0FM broadcasting and online streaming provided easy access to the listeners.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0We are able to listen to radio programs through Mobile App.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Still we are able to catch the signals of Shortwave Radio and getting a QSL card nowadays gives more pleasure.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Participating in the contest organized by the Radio Station is another interest for the listeners.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Radio Prague still sends t-shirts to the winners in their monthly contests, Radio Romania International provides special prizes to the winners in their regular contests.<\/p>\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Radio Romania International, our favorite Station, organizes special contests to its listeners.<\/p>\n Radio has the ability to reach across borders and can become a valuable source of information. From YOUNG STARS RADIO CLUB, HYDERABAD we always promote this radio listening hobby giving wide awareness and publicity about the hobby. Our club slogan is always \u201cShortwave \u2013 travel through the sound waves\u201d. We thank one and all at RRI and for their support to the listeners. We wish World Radio Day 2024 a successful and memorable day attracting more radio listeners. Happy listening and Happy DXing!\u201d(Hari Madugula, India)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDear Madam Sir, I am so happy to write this email to you. I hope you are having a wonderful day. I have been a faithful listener to your programs for a long time.\u00a0Concerning the\u00a0WRD, RRI played a great role in fostering dialogue, promoting cultural diversity, and addressing important issues.\u00a0By the way, I hope you will organize more contests and quizzes for listeners and viewers of RRI. Could you please send me some postcards, qsl and books about Romania culture?\u201d\u00a0(Nazih Mohammed<\/strong>,\u00a0Morocco)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDear Sir, RRI\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0English service. On February 13th Our\u00a0Radio\u00a0listener’s Club is celebrating\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day. This day is dedicated to celebrating the role of\u00a0radio\u00a0in society and its impact on our daily lives.\u00a0\u00a0Radio\u00a0has been an integral part of our lives for over a century. It has played a crucial role in providing access to information, entertainment, and education to people around the\u00a0world. In times of crisis,\u00a0radio\u00a0has served as a lifeline, providing critical information and updates to communities in need.\u00a0\u00a0Radio\u00a0is more than just a medium of entertainment and information. It is a tool for social and cultural development, connecting communities and promoting diversity and dialogue.\u00a0Radio\u00a0programs, especially those dedicated to local communities, provide a platform for local voices and perspectives to be heard.\u00a0 As we celebrate\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day, let us recognize the important role that\u00a0radio\u00a0plays in our lives and the lives of communities around the\u00a0world. Let us also take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of those who work in the\u00a0radio\u00a0industry, bringing us content that informs, inspires, and entertains us.\u00a0 So, on this\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day, let us tune in to our favorite\u00a0radio\u00a0stations and celebrate the power of\u00a0radio.\u00a0\u00a0We hope you help and send some information materials with souvenir for our\u00a0Radio\u00a0club next conference as a token\u00a0of love.\u201d\u00a0(Kanchan KR Chatterjee, West Bengal, India)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDear Sir\/Ma\u2019am, Happy\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day! On this special occasion, I want to take a moment to express my utmost appreciation for the incredible work you are doing. Your dedication to delivering captivating content, fostering community engagement, and amplifying diverse voices is truly commendable.<\/p>\n In today’s digital age, where technology constantly evolves, the timeless charm and significance of\u00a0radio\u00a0remain unparalleled. As we celebrate\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day, it’s essential to acknowledge the profound impact\u00a0radio\u00a0continues to have on our lives. From delivering breaking news and entertaining programming to promoting cultural exchange and social cohesion,\u00a0radio\u00a0serves as a beacon of information and inspiration for millions around the globe.<\/p>\n Your commitment to excellence in broadcasting is evident in every show aired, every story told, and every listener reached. Your ability to captivate audiences with compelling content while fostering meaningful connections within your community is a testament to your unwavering passion and professionalism.<\/p>\n As we reflect on the importance of\u00a0radio\u00a0in today’s era, let us also celebrate the power of storytelling, the beauty of diverse perspectives, and the strength of unity that\u00a0radio\u00a0brings to our lives each\u00a0day.<\/p>\n Here’s to another year of inspiring broadcasts, meaningful conversations, and endless possibilities. Wishing you continued success and prosperity in all your endeavors. Happy\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day! Warm regards.\u201d\u00a0(Muhammad Aqeel Bashir & All Club Members, Pak Listeners Club, Jhang, International\u00a0Radio\u00a0Listeners Organization Pakistan)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWorld\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a0(English:\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day; French: Le jour mondial de la\u00a0radio) is an\u00a0international\u00a0day\u00a0celebrated on February 13 every year.\u00a0 The aim of the\u00a0day\u00a0is to raise awareness among the public and the media about the importance of\u00a0radio, to ensure the availability of\u00a0radio\u00a0information to decision makers and to strengthen\u00a0international\u00a0cooperation and mutual exchange of views and information among\u00a0radio\u00a0broadcasters.<\/p>\n In 2014, the 36th session of the UNESCO General Conference declared 13th February as\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day.\u00a0 In 2011, following a proposal by Spain’s Academia Espa\u00f1ola de\u00a0Radio, based on a feasibility study conducted by UNESCO, UNESCO’s Executive Council recommended the declaration of\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a0to the General Assembly.\u00a0 Note that on 13 February 1946, the United Nations’ own\u00a0radio\u00a0station began its journey.[1]\n Radio\u00a0is a mass media in the\u00a0world\u00a0which has more reach than any other mass media.\u00a0 It is recognized as both a powerful communication tool and a cost-effective medium.\u00a0 Wireless has no substitute for reaching remote communities and vulnerable populations (populations with low literacy rates, persons with disabilities, women, youth, and those living in poverty).\u00a0 At the same time, it is a forum for people’s participation in public debate irrespective of the level of institutional education.\u00a0 Moreover, wireless has a strong and specific role in emergency communication and disaster relief.\u00a0 Today, the trend of homogenization of various media has increased, so wireless services are also adapting to new forms of technology, emerging in different forms such as broadband internet, mobile phones and tablets.\u00a0 Despite this, it is said that nearly 1 billion people around the\u00a0world\u00a0still do not have access to wireless service.<\/p>\n However, every year\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a0is celebrated with a theme.\u00a0 And that theme is decided by UNESCO. This year’s theme for\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a0is\u00a0Radio: A Century Informing, Entertaining and Educating.<\/p>\n Once this medium was our only form of entertainment.\u00a0 Many things may be lost in the course of time.\u00a0 But some affection, some love is never lost.\u00a0 If not, pushing the crowd of many memories, he becomes a poem and says, ‘I am your past.’\u00a0 Whom you left far far away.\u00a0 I didn’t leave you because I love you, I gave my all effortlessly, I built your past, present.\u00a0 Then I arranged your future.\u00a0 I didn’t want anything in return.\u00a0 But why do you neglect it?\u00a0 All around your friends now.\u00a0 Am I none of yours?\u00a0 I was not – is anyone?<\/p>\n Honestly, he was my someone.\u00a0 So even if I forget many things, I can’t forget him.\u00a0 He hugs me like my first love.\u00a0 I still cling to him because I can’t forget him.<\/p>\n When I was a child, the other girls of the house, including my mother, used to sit together and listen to\u00a0radio\u00a0plays every night with the\u00a0radio\u00a0in the middle.\u00a0 “Prafulla”, “Hungry for Septopas”, “Saheb”, “Naranarayan”, “Tapti”, “Rakta Kamal”, “Jhangha”, “Baikunther Khata”, “Khudith Pashan” are numerous plays.\u00a0 Not only on Sundays, on Fridays at eight o’clock there was a\u00a0radio\u00a0play. On Wednesday evenings there was a journey.\u00a0 What a performance. Those memories are true today.\u00a0 Famous theater personalities Virendra Kishore Bhadra, Jagannath Bose, Ajitesh Banerjee, Vani Kumar, Urmimala Bose, Paran Banerjee, Shukla Banerjee etc.\u00a0 And Mahalaya – Today and on the\u00a0radio, Virendra Krishna Bhadra’s timeless creation “Mahishasuramardini” is heard by many.<\/p>\n So much for the local\u00a0radio.\u00a0But the wireless freaks didn’t stop here, they don’t stop there. They listen to various radio stations from the outside\u00a0world. It can be called a royal hobby. This hobby is called DXing.<\/p>\n DXing, derived from dx, telegraphic shorthand for “distance” or “distant”, or other two-way\u00a0radio\u00a0communication.\u00a0 Many DXers also attempt written verification of reception or communication, sometimes referred to as “QSLs” or “veries”.<\/p>\n DXing started in the early\u00a0days\u00a0of\u00a0radio\u00a0broadcasting.\u00a0 Listeners would mail “reception reports” to\u00a0radio\u00a0broadcasting stations in hopes of receiving a written acknowledgment or a QSL card that served as official verification that they had heard a distant station.\u00a0 Collecting these cards became popular with\u00a0radio\u00a0listeners in the 1920s and 1930s, and reception reports were often used by early broadcasters to measure the effectiveness of their transmissions.\u00a0 Although\u00a0international\u00a0shortwave broadcasting is declining, DXing is still popular among dedicated shortwave listeners.\u00a0 The pursuit of two-way communication between remote amateur\u00a0radio\u00a0operators is also a significant activity in the amateur\u00a0radio\u00a0hobby.<\/p>\n The fun of listening to programs in one’s mother tongue on foreign\u00a0radio\u00a0is different.\u00a0 Some\u00a0radio\u00a0English programs are also quite popular.\u00a0 Notable foreign\u00a0radio\u00a0stations include BBC, Voice of America, Deutsche Welle, CRY,\u00a0Radio\u00a0Moscow,\u00a0Radio\u00a0Japan, KBS,\u00a0Radio\u00a0Taiwan\u00a0International,\u00a0Radio\u00a0France,\u00a0Radio\u00a0Romania\u00a0International, Voice of Korea, Voice of Mongolia, Voice of Vietnam,\u00a0Radio\u00a0Slovakia,Radio\u00a0Tehran etc. etc.<\/p>\n Many\u00a0radio\u00a0stations these\u00a0days\u00a0do Internet broadcasting in addition to\u00a0radio\u00a0broadcasting. But DXers prefer listening to the\u00a0radio.\u00a0 And when the hearing is interrupted, slap and jot the wireless device on the forehead. Due to the dominance of mobile and TV, the number of\u00a0radio\u00a0stations has decreased slightly, but there are still many listeners.\u00a0 Those who listen know the fun of it.\u00a0 Therefore, the United Nations UNESCO encourages the observance of\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also used the\u00a0radio\u00a0medium to promote his government.\u00a0 Regularly continuing the Man Ki Baat program.<\/p>\n Over the past few years, my relationship with\u00a0Radio\u00a0Romania\u00a0International\u00a0has deepened considerably. I can’t go a day without listening to\u00a0Radio\u00a0Romania\u00a0International.\u00a0Radio\u00a0Romania\u00a0International\u00a0has become my soul mate. There was wireless, there is wireless and there will be wireless – maybe in a new form. Thank you.\u201d\u00a0(Bidhan Chandra Sanyal, West Bengal, India)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cGood\u00a0day, I regularly listen to your English broadcast on shortwave\u00a0radio\u00a0over here in Scotland. I have been a keen shortwave enthusiast since I was a small boy when I first got a transistor\u00a0radio\u00a0back in the 80s, I can fondly remember when I first picked up a foreign station broadcasting in broken English, and I was so intrigued into what they were speaking about.<\/p>\n From then on I was hooked, I started to send reception reports to the various stations from around the\u00a0world\u00a0in hope to receive a QSL card and even get a wee mention on one of their English broadcasts whether it be\u00a0Radio\u00a0Exterior De Espana, HJBC Ecuador, Habana Cuba or another exotic far flung country, I couldn’t wait for the postman some\u00a0days\u00a0to see who would have sent me a QSL card.<\/p>\n Good\u00a0days, Now with the internet it\u2019s not the same, only a handful of stations remain broadcasting to the\u00a0world\u00a0on shortwave in English, I hope it\u2019s not the demise of Shortwave as countries in Africa and even Australia still rely on regular broadcasts to remote areas were the internet is not practical for people to gather news and listen to music.<\/p>\n I\u2019m 50 years old now and I still enjoy listening to the crackle of a English broadcast on Shortwave\u00a0Radio\u00a0here in Scotland. Happy\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a0Romania. Kind Regards.\u201d (Garry Crawford, Elgin, Scotland, UK)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a0February\u00a02024.<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cDear sir, Radio\u00a0has woven itself into the fabric of human history, leaving an indelible mark on society. From its inception to the digital age,\u00a0radio\u00a0has served as a vital tool for communication, entertainment, and education. Its ongoing utilitarian value is evident in its ability to reach remote areas with important information, provide emergency alerts, and deliver diverse programming to listeners\u00a0worldwide.<\/p>\n Moreover,\u00a0radio\u00a0plays a crucial role in upholding democratic values by fostering freedom of expression and promoting public discourse. Through talk shows, interviews, and debates,\u00a0radio\u00a0provides a platform for individuals to voice their opinions, discuss pressing issues, and hold authorities accountable. In many countries, community\u00a0radio\u00a0stations serve as grassroots platforms for marginalized groups to share their perspectives and advocate for social change.<\/p>\n Furthermore,\u00a0radio\u00a0has historically been a catalyst for social movements, empowering communities to mobilize and advocate for their rights. Whether broadcasting revolutionary messages during times of political upheaval or amplifying the voices of marginalized communities,\u00a0radio\u00a0has been a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity and social justice.<\/p>\n In today’s digital landscape,\u00a0radio\u00a0continues to evolve, adapting to new technologies and changing listener preferences. Online streaming, podcasting, and social media integration have expanded the reach of\u00a0radio, making it more accessible and interactive than ever before.<\/p>\n In essence, the ongoing utilitarian and democratic value of\u00a0radio\u00a0lies in its ability to inform, inspire, and unite people across borders and generations. As we navigate an increasingly complex\u00a0world,\u00a0radio\u00a0remains a beacon of connectivity, resilience, and hope. Regards.\u201d\u00a0(Malik Allah Bachaya Khokhar. Sungat\u00a0Radio\u00a0Listeners Club. Muzaffargarh, Pakistan)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHappy\u00a0World\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a02024 to you, your devoted team and listeners. Listening to\u00a0radio\u00a0can really be relaxing and informative as well. Listening to\u00a0radio\u00a0can really be relaxing and informative as well. I will get relaxed when I listen to the\u00a0radio. In the evening time I go for a walk and listen to the\u00a0radio\u00a0through my cell phone.<\/p>\n Aside from playing music,\u00a0radio\u00a0stations also announce breaking news stories of interest. This is why motorists still like to stay tuned to\u00a0radio\u00a0as they drive \u2014 they stay entertained by the music and updated on traffic situations, current events, and other relevant occurrences.<\/p>\n Radio\u00a0has always been great at setting the mood. You can tune into a station that features mostly pop songs if you like feeling upbeat (or if you need a peppy background as you clean the house). You can reminisce about old times when you flip to a station that plays old, classic love songs. And you can keep your cool on the road as you drive if you choose easy listening\u00a0radio.<\/p>\n Because music easily taps into a person’s emotions, there’s no question that people rely on\u00a0radio\u00a0stations to bring them music that they love, that they feel inspired by, or that they simply love humming along to.\u00a0Radio\u00a0stays with you during good times and bad, always in the background, playing a soundtrack to your\u00a0day\u00a0\u2014 which is why it remains a much-loved medium today.\u00a0Regards.\u201d\u00a0(Mitul Kansal, Haryana, India)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cRadio, from its beginning, the early\u00a0days, it\u2019s a device, nowadays\u00a0in every form and format, but has kept its purpose, to inform, communicate, entertain and broadcast emergency news. Every\u00a0radio\u00a0station broadcasts its content regularly, music, drama, news, political issues, programs with religious content, learning new things, even languages.\u00a0Radio\u00a0sets can cost low or be more costly, you can find every size and function, with battery powered ones, and small\u00a0radio\u00a0sets, you can take them where you like, be informed about everything, mostly important about emergency issues, and also be entertained, during your free time. Radio\u00a0broadcasts help in spreading democratic values, freedom of speech, spreading solidarity among minor communities, solidarity for immigrants, people in need, religious minorities. With as low as five euros, you can buy a\u00a0radio\u00a0set, and have the whole\u00a0world\u00a0in your hand, listen to all broadcast stations around the\u00a0world, be informed. This is the future of\u00a0radio\u00a0its multiuse and multi features, but one must not forget its origins. Formats of\u00a0radio\u00a0listening such as podcasts, internet\u00a0radio, satellite\u00a0radio, drm and dab +. Radio, its past was golden, its present innovative and multi-functional, its future, still to be written, and yet so many things to promote and broadcast. Wishing all the best to all at\u00a0Radio\u00a0Romania International\u00a0and all\u00a0Radio\u00a0Romania listeners around the globe. Greetings from Malta.\u201d\u00a0(Adrian Micallef, Malta)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201c<\/strong>RADIO: A DAILY COMPANION<\/p>\n “Is there a typhoon? ”<\/p>\n “It’s now the age of fiber optics and you are still into that?”<\/p>\n In several instances, I remember these two particular reactions I got upon seeing\u00a0 me still lugging around and\u00a0 listening avidly to my portable transistor\u00a0radio. So, who still really listens to the\u00a0radio?\u00a0 What does it still offer us in this age of artificial intelligence?<\/p>\n I frequently listen to the AM band. So, these are the usual programs that I hear which, maybe, is true to any part of the\u00a0world\u00a0at present. Aside from the usual traffic and weather reports, prime time slots are commonly rented out to the following: Herbal medicine or beauty products vendors selling their non-approved, no therapeutic-proven health items. Political parties and religious denominations to keep their presence with their constituents and congregants. Aside from the distracted anchors, who sometimes give us the wrong date,\u00a0day\u00a0and time, there are the endless commercials from local businesses selling their own individual wares. With the above reality of the\u00a0radio\u00a0nowadays, who among us still willingly listens to the\u00a0radio? For me, listening to the\u00a0radio\u00a0is very mentally challenging. From the AM bands, I go to the SW (Short Wave) frequency bands. There are still serious SW stations that conduct various contests whereby they give out questions and topics wherein interested listeners like me who\u00a0participate are usually given reading materials which, in time, I came to cherish by reading and rereading them. These are my so-called ” Books from the Air.” Where in the\u00a0world\u00a0can one still receive a book coming from the air? It is possible by listening to the\u00a0radio, specifically in the SW frequency bands. From time to time, I can also get to listen to the hypnotic Number Stations.\u00a0 Listening to the mysterious recitation of number groups accompany me in my long walks and as I also think through things in my life.\u00a0That’s all I can say about listening to the\u00a0radio\u00a0nowadays.\u201d\u00a0(Allan S. Fenix, City of Naga, Philippines)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cRadio talks about people.\u00a0Radio education is the gateway to consciousness and knowledge.\u00a0Radio talks about building a beautiful life. Improves humanity.\u00a0Radio makes real people by improving\u00a0people’s lifestyle. This radio is my teacher, and soul. Respect and love to\u00a0all listeners on\u00a0\u00a0World\u00a0\u00a0Radio\u00a0\u00a0Day.\u201d\u00a0(Debashish Gope, West Bengal, India)<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWorld\u00a0Radio\u00a0Day\u00a0is observed on 13th February every year. We celebrate the power of\u00a0radio\u00a0as a medium for information, entertainment, and education. Let’s appreciate the role that\u00a0radio\u00a0plays in our lives and the impact it has on communities around the\u00a0world.”<\/p>\n Radio\u00a0has the power to reach people in remote and underserved areas, giving voice to the voiceless.<\/p>\n Every\u00a0day, every hour and every minute, the radio\u00a0has been the best friend of people all around the globe by providing them with all-time entertainment.<\/p>\n Importance of\u00a0Radio\u00a0in today’s\u00a0world:\u00a0In countries where free expression is suppressed, access to technology is expensive or illiteracy rates are high,\u00a0radio\u00a0continues to play an important role in information sharing.<\/p>\n Radio\u00a0broadcasts can provide real-time information, broadcasted 24 hours a\u00a0day\u00a0to provide the most recent updates to listeners. Stations have the ability to reach across borders and become a source of information where reliable news is scarce. When access to the internet is blocked and phone lines are cut, people can still search the airwaves for trustworthy sources. Even electricity is not a necessity for battery operated and hand-cranked radios.<\/p>\n Radio\u00a0remains one of the best communication tools for the rural poor. It is ideal for low-income populations and sparsely-populated areas since radios are affordable and broadcasts can reach a wide audience. In countries where access to the internet is limited and illiteracy rates are high,\u00a0radio\u00a0stations play a major role in sharing news and educational information.<\/p>\n The last decade has seen a dramatic increase in\u00a0radio\u00a0stations across Africa, especially locally-run community stations. While new technologies such as satellite, online and cell-phone\u00a0radio\u00a0are increasing, none have reached the simplicity and effectiveness of traditional\u00a0radio. In Kenya 87% of those surveyed had radios at home, 71% had a phone and only 11% could access the internet at home.<\/p>\n Radio\u00a0journalists are at risk of harassment, intimidation and physical threats for their work. Stations around the\u00a0world\u00a0have had their signals blocked, their licenses to broadcast revoked and have been the target of attacks. Violations such as those below demonstrate that\u00a0radio\u00a0remains a powerful tool in disseminating information and are perceived as threats by some governments. Somalia and China are examples of countries where the authorities have taken steps to silence\u00a0radio\u00a0broadcasts.<\/p>\n Despite the fact that\u00a0radio\u00a0broadcasting puts both journalists and the stations they work for at risk, they continue to exist because there is a readership that values their news and information.\u00a0Radio\u00a0continues to be a widely used medium for reporting both local and\u00a0international\u00a0news. Advances in technology may have led to the emergence of a broad range of media outlets and platforms, but it has also made the\u00a0radio\u00a0more accessible for populations that lack access to other means of information technology, which is why it is still very much relevant today.\u201d\u00a0(Ashok Kansal<\/strong>,\u00a0Haryana, India)<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" This week, on February 13, the world celebrated World Radio Day, so, we devoted this edition of Listeners\u2019 Letterbox to this day and to RRI\u2019s wonderful radio listeners all over the world who have started sending us messages about the significance of radio in their lives as early as January. We thank you all for […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":553360,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[46165],"tags":[116462],"coauthors":[116427],"class_list":["post-615206","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-listeners-corner","tag-world-radio-day-2024"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n