Entering into its seventh years of community services, Radio Rimjhim plans to work on ‘1050 girls per 1000 boys’ in Gopalganj district, in Bihar.

Situated on the bank of river Gandak, the fear of flood threat is always high in the adjacent areas of Gopalganj. Radio Rimjhim plans to save lives of the local residents from the effects of flood and water-borne diseases and also on others diseases like diabetes and blood pressure.

Celebrating the success of the radio station, Station Manager Kripashankar Srivastava said, “We will disseminate information on prior and post flood related issues. Ninety per cent of the residents belong to labourers and low income group. We will generate awareness to these people on water-borne diseases.”

Gopalganj is now steps ahead from many cities in gender ratio. “To empower and promote the girl child, we have set our target of 1050 girls per 1000 boys,” he added.

Through programmes like ‘Gyan Vigyan’, the radio station has explored the historical and other achievements of Bihar. Residents in the district feel the station has generated  a sense of responsibility.

“By disseminating the eco-friendly messages, Radio Rimjhim has brought a new sense of responsibility towards the environment in the community people,” said Manoj, a local resident.

Programmes like ‘Prashna Pratiyogita’, dedicated for the students, has helped in accumulating knowledge  and preparation of exams in better way.

‘Rimjhim chalal’ takes the listeners to different villages and provides a chance to the local residents to get connected with the entire village. The programme keeps all the villages united by making them a part of Community Radio.

With an aim to expand the service to employment, the Community Radio will focus on exploring new opportunities for local production in future. It has also planned to promote livestock, especially oxen which have been exporting to Bangladesh .

Going on air for 14 hrs per day, Radio Rimjhim has done phenomenal work so far. It has successfully exceeded 2,000 radio programmes. Local administration has been very supportive to the Community Radio Station.

Author: Ruby Rani/ OneWorld