Bijapur (Chhattisgarh) [India], January 31 (HBTV): Amid the rapid spread of social media platforms and mobile phones worldwide, the Central Reserve Police Force has distributed radios in several villages of the Bastar division under its Civic Action Programme to strengthen communication and awareness in remote areas.
Radio has emerged as a significant tool in efforts to counter Naxalism in Chhattisgarh. As part of the initiative, the 228th Battalion of the CRPF distributed radios in Jidpalli village and nearby hamlets. Through these radios, villagers are receiving information related to employment opportunities, examinations and recruitment in the army and police.
Apart from entertainment, radio is playing an important role in informing and educating people, while also helping change mindsets in conflict-affected villages by spreading awareness about welfare schemes of both the central and state governments.
Describing radio as a bridge of trust and communication, Raghav, Assistant Commandant of Forward Operating Base Jidpalli, said that weather bulletins, agricultural advisories, updates on government schemes and national news are regularly reaching villagers, enabling them to stay prepared for both opportunities and emergencies.
He noted that in areas where mobile networks are unavailable, radio continues to be a reliable source of information, ensuring that government initiatives and global developments reach even the most remote villages. According to him, as the Bastar region gradually emerges from years of Naxal violence and moves towards development, such communication platforms are crucial in replacing rumours with accurate and timely information.
‘Information about government policies is reaching villagers through this channel. Insights on farming and weather are improving lives, and the widespread impact of radio distribution is clearly visible,’ he added.
Sharing his experience, local farmer Sukkhu Yadav said the radio has changed the daily routine of villagers and has become a new window to the world for the youth. He explained that earlier they predicted rainfall by observing the sky, but now they rely on radio weather forecasts to decide the timing of sowing and harvesting.
Lakshman Yadav, a youth from Jidpalli Rawatpara, said that besides local updates, the radio provides news from across the country along with information on farming, health and government schemes. He added that listening to folk songs on the radio after a long day of work helps ease exhaustion.
(ANI)