Akashvani Aizawl Celebrates Its 60th Anniversary

Aizawl, Aug 25: Akashvani Aizawl celebrated its 60th Anniversary at the Akashvani Aizawl Multipurpose Hall. The event was graced by Pu Ashish Bhatnagar, Additional Director General (A, BO & CO), North East Zone, Akashvani & Doordarshan, Guwahati, as the chief guest.

In his address, Pu Ashish Bhatnagar expressed his appreciation for Akashvani Aizawl’s 60-year milestone, recognizing its significant role in preserving Mizo culture and traditions. He highlighted that Akashvani serves as a vital bridge, bringing government schemes and initiatives to the masses, including through popular programs like the President’s address and Prime Minister’s “Mann ki Baat”.

He further elaborated on the importance of radio in today’s era, stating that Akashvani broadcasts content in 90 languages and dialects across Northeast India. He also spoke about initiatives like ‘Janahit Yojana ek Samiksha’—a program designed to create awareness about government schemes, and the RAISE (Radio Audience Interactive Survey and Evaluation) application developed by engineers from the Northeast.

Additional Director General Bhatnagar praised Akashvani Aizawl’s interactive programs like ‘Meri Baat’ which engage directly with listeners, emphasizing that radio remains the closest medium to the people. He also suggested appointing a ‘Happiness Officer’ to further enhance audience engagement. He urged all staff, past and present, to continue innovating and working closely with the I&PR Department and other stakeholders.

Pu D.R. Lalropuia, Director (E) & Cluster Head, Akashvani Aizawl, while addressing the gathering, reminisced about Akashvani Aizawl’s journey since its inception on 31st July 1966. He highlighted how the station played a vital role during turbulent times and how it continues to adapt to the digital era with online streaming platforms.

Pi Mina Zoliani, Joint Director, Information & Public Relations (I&PR), also spoke on the occasion, appreciating Akashvani Aizawl’s contribution to the Mizo community over the past six decades. She expressed confidence that with continued collaboration with the I&PR Department, Akashvani will remain a trusted source of information and cultural preservation.

During the event, Pu Ashish Bhatnagar also announced a special recognition for Akashvani Lunglei for having the highest number of engagements on its Facebook page among Northeast Akashvani stations. He mentioned initiatives like the Parliamentary Committee on Official Language Inspection (PCOL) involving Akashvani & DD Aizawl. Special acknowledgment was given to Pu H.C. Vanlalruata and Pu Isaac Zoramsanga for their Emmy Award-winning BBC documentary, “Myanmar’s Civil War.”

Other notable speakers included Pu Biakchungnunga, AD (Programmes), Akashvani Aizawl; Pu Gin Gangte, AD (News), Akashvani Aizawl; and Pu Nampibou Marinmai, Director (News), Doordarshan Kendra Aizawl. From the audience, Dr. Rualkhuma Colney, Principal (Rtd.), Mizoram Law College, and Pi Lallianvungi, Lecturer, Zemabawk HSS, shared their reflections.

Pi Ramchullo Hmar, Hindi In-charge, Akashvani Aizawl, and Pi Jenny Laldingliani, Hindi In-charge, DDK Aizawl, presented the report of the Parliamentary Committee on Official Language Inspection. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Pi Judy Darhmingmawii, PEX (CO), Akashvani Aizawl.