13 February: World Radio Day

World Radio Day (WRD) is observed globally on 13th February to remember the unique power of radio that touches lives and bring people together across every corner of the globe.

Significance of Day

It marks global celebration of radio as a forum for information and entertainment that helps to bridge communication gap for remote communities and empowering people.

Theme 2017

“Radio is You”. It signifies radio as the communication medium that reaches the widest audience worldwide in the quickest in times of emergency and disaster.

Observances

United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) celebrate this day by planning different activities with broadcasters, organizations and communities around the world.

In India, 2 day (on 13-14 February) annual international radio fair ‘Outreach International Radio Fair-2016’ has been organised in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. All India Radio, Overseas broadcasters, private FMs, community radio and internet radio stations are participating in it.

History of World Radio Day

13th February was proclaimed as World Radio Day by UNESCO at its 36th General Assembly in 2011 proclaimed. On this day in 1946, United Nations Radio had transmitted (broadcasted) its first call sign. The first WRD was officially celebrated in 2012.