Pune’s Beloved Akashvani Evening Broadcasts to Return on April 7
Pune, 23rd March 2024: After a hiatus of two years, the evening local broadcast of Akashvani Pune Centre is set to resume on April 7, following recent approval from senior authorities at All India Radio (AIR). This decision marks a triumph for Pune’s listeners, who have advocated for the restoration of their beloved programming.
Established in 1953, Akashvani’s Pune centre boasts the highest listenership nationwide, according to official Prasar Bharati data. Additionally, it stands as AIR’s top-earning centre through advertisements. However, two years ago, as part of a strategic decision by Prasar Bharati, all Akashvani Stations in Maharashtra, including Pune, were instructed to halt their evening broadcasts and instead simulcast Mumbai Station programs.
This move led to a reduction in local program production by AIR, diminishing opportunities for local artists, intellectuals, and occasional announcers. In response, Pune’s Akashvani listeners and local artists vehemently protested, consistently conveying their sentiments to higher authorities. Their persistent efforts have finally borne fruit, with senior officials approving to reinstating of the evening broadcast of Akashvani Pune Center on April 7.
This development ensures Pune listeners can once again enjoy their favourite evening local programs, including Yuvvani, Hello Aapli Aavad, Nabhonatya, Folk Music, Classical Music, and Family Programmes.
Indrajit Bagal, Director of Pune Center of Akashvani and Doordarshan, expressed his satisfaction with the decision, stating, “On behalf of Akashvani Pune Center, a proposal was sent to the seniors to start evening local broadcasts. It has been approved, and accordingly, we will start the evening local broadcast of Akashvani Pune Center on April 7.” With this announcement, Pune’s airwaves are poised to regain their vibrancy, reconnecting with the community through locally produced content.
