Radio making waves

S.P. Sharma on popularity of FM radio in J&K

Within a few months of having come to Jammu and Kashmir, the BIG 92.7 FM has not only revived the radio culture in state but has also created ripples across the border in various parts of Lahore in Pakistan.

The youngsters who till now did not relish listening to radio can now be seen tuned to the FM.

With masala-packed programmes, people of all age groups and different sections of society have something to keep them entertained on the radio.

The cluster head of the BIG FM in J&K says the popularity of their broadcasts can be gauged from the fact that they were receiving telephone calls and e-mails even from Sialkot in Pakistan in response to various programmes broadcast by them. Sialkot is just across their coverage area of Ranbirsinghpura on the border.

He says that the Jammu station of BIG FM receives an average of 25,000 SMS per week in response to their programmes. The number adds up to 32,000 per week if the response to the Kashmir station is also taken into account.

The coverage area in Jammu consists of the districts of Jammu, Samba and Udhampur, whereas in the valley the BIG FM can be heard in Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Sopore, Gulmarg and Pahalgam. Separate programmes are prepared in Kashmiri and Dogri for the two stations to reach the rural population.

The Pyar Vyar Hello Yaar offered daily by the radio jockey (RJ) Manas between 7 pm and 10 pm has become a hit with the youth who are provided a platform to share their best moments and problems on the show.

The morning begins with devotional songs and tips for prosperity and peace. This is followed by a four-hour lively programme Big Chai by RJs Rahul and Shaveta.

Radio jockey Nazrana touches a chord with listeners by presenting an hour-long programme Aap ki Khatir in which she brings a woman achiever on board and has a chat with her about her life and work.

Besides, programmes on Bollywood, fitness, request songs are being broadcast to entertain listeners round the clock.

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