Ooty Conference Charts the Future of Community Radio

As the media landscape rapidly evolves through technological advancement, a two-focused conference titled “Community Radio in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” was held on March 14 and 15, 2026, at Vinayaga Inn by Poppys Hotel in Udhagamandalam. This gathering served as a vital platform for organizations, NGOs, and educational institutions to explore the growth of community broadcasting and the transformative power of AI in the sector. 

A major highlight of the event was the official release of the "Community Radio Handbook," authored by Dr. T. Jaisakthivel from the University of Madras and published by Airmedia Broadcast Solutions. This new publication offers a comprehensive guide for establishing and operating stations, including a detailed directory of existing community radio services across Tamil Nadu.

During the sessions, Dr. Jaisakthivel proposed a significant policy shift for the Indian broadcasting sector, advocating for a Restricted Service License (RSL) model similar to the system used in the United Kingdom. He explained that allowing short-term licenses for specific cultural events such as "Pongal FM" or "Ramadan FM" could boost employment and encourage localized radio growth. 

Complementing this vision for expansion, conference organizer Mr. P. Vijayakumar detailed the practical steps for accessing Central Government grants of up to ₹12.5 lakhs, providing essential guidance for schools and colleges looking to launch their own stations.

 The technical discussions delved into the practical applications of AI, specifically how automated 24-hour broadcasting and AI-driven content production can modernize local stations. Representatives from Rathinavani FM and Kalasalingam FM shared their operational experiences, while the second day shifted focus toward the future with preparations for an International Media Conference set for December. 

With contributions from academic experts like Dr. C. Praveenkumar and Dr. Pragathi, the conference reinforced the role of community radio as a bridge for social development, blending traditional grassroots outreach with cutting-edge technology.