Central University of Punjab commissions ‘CU Punjab Radio 89.6 FM’ community radio to strengthen education, empowerment and community development

Central University of Punjab commissions ‘CU Punjab Radio 89.6 FM’ community radio to strengthen education, empowerment and community development

Bathinda 3 December ( PDL ) :  The Central University of Punjab on Wednesday commissioned its community radio station, ‘CU Punjab Radio 89.6 FM’, establishing a powerful new platform for education, empowerment and community development that connects the University directly with the people. The community radio station was commissioned by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari, at the University campus in Village Ghudda, District Bathinda, in the august presence of the Special Guest, AICTE Chairperson, Prof. T. G. Sitharam. The broadcasts will cover an approximate radius of 10 km, reaching surrounding villages and communities with meaningful, informative and inspiring programmes. The station will air four hours a day, from Monday to Friday, between 9:30–11:30 AM and 3:00–5:00 PM. The Vice-Chancellor of the Central University of Punjab, Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari, described this development as a transformational step towards inclusive education and social awareness. He stated that community radio is “a medium that reaches the unreached and plays a pivotal role in supplementing and promoting education among the masses.” Highlighting its wider societal relevance, he said the radio will serve as an effective platform to address major social challenges such as drug abuse, corruption and mental health concerns, while also contributing to awareness and preparedness for disaster management. Appreciating the establishment of this significant communication channel, AICTE Chairperson Prof. T. G. Sitharam said that CU Punjab Radio will become an effective platform that will contribute meaningfully in improving the living standards of the people of Bathinda district. He added that the station is not just a broadcast frequency, but a bridge between knowledge and society—a voice of social responsibility and empowerment that can transform communities by turning information into inspiration and progress. In his inaugural broadcast, Prof. Tiwari and Prof. Sitharam expressed confidence that the radio waves of CU Punjab Radio will spread empowerment, education, awareness and public engagement across the region, strengthening the link between knowledge and society. Inspired by Punjabi culture and rooted in the ethos of public service and the guiding principle ‘Vidya Vichari Ta Parupkari’, CU Punjab Radio 89.6 FM will air programmes on health, agriculture, higher education, skill development, employment, women empowerment, youth leadership, environment and social welfare. Talk shows and discussion series will bring fresh ideas, new enthusiasm and new directions to address the community’s evolving needs and aspirations. Dr. Vijay Sharma, Registrar, congratulated the entire CU Punjab fraternity on the commissioning of the community radio at the University. He stated that the community radio will serve as a powerful tool for grassroots participation, and the University will encourage the active involvement of students, faculty, community members, government departments and organisations to make the radio a collective catalyst for progress. Dr. Rubal Kanozia, Director, CU Punjab Radio, and Mr. Robin Jindal, Nodal Officer, CU Punjab Radio, shared that the radio channel will provide a dynamic and accessible space for people — especially youth — to showcase their talent, express their voice and discuss contemporary social issues. “Along with academic learning, the radio will promote Punjabi culture, local art, folk music, inspirational stories and community success narratives,” they added. With ‘CU Punjab Radio 89.6 FM — The Voice of Progress’, the Central University of Punjab aims to connect hearts, inspire hope and build a bridge between knowledge and society through community-led development and public-centric broadcasting.