February 13, New Delhi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi today extended greetings on World Radio Day, highlighting radio as a trusted medium that delivers timely information and nurtures creativity across villages and cities alike.
The Prime Minister also invited citizens to share their inputs for the upcoming February 22 episode of Mann Ki Baat, noting his personal experience of radio’s power to showcase societal strength.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X and wrote, “World Radio Day is about celebrating a medium that is a trusted voice for people, whether in remote villages or bustling cities. For years, radio has delivered timely information, amplified talent, and encouraged creativity. This is a day to acknowledge the efforts of all those associated with this medium. Through #MannKiBaat, I have firsthand experienced the potential of the radio in bringing out the societal strength of our people. This month’s programme will take place on Sunday, February 22nd. Please share your inputs for the programme.”
Despite being over 100 years old, radio is one of the most popular ways to exchange information, provide social interaction, and educate people all over the world. It has been used to help people, including youth, engage in discussions on topics that affect them. It can save lives during natural or human-made disasters, and it gives journalists a platform to report facts and tell their stories.
Proclaimed in 2011 by UNESCO Member States and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012, World Radio Day is celebrated every year on February 13. For 2026, the theme, ‘Radio and Artificial Intelligence,’ opens up a whole new field of discussion, creation, and exploration.
This year, UNESCO is encouraging radio stations to make use of new free resources, including access to broadcasting-related AI tools and free AI training sessions.
Radio stands at a moment of transformation, where AI can help strengthen its core mission: informing, educating, and entertaining. By automating routine tasks—like scheduling, voice-tracking, weather and sports updates, and administrative workflows—stations can free teams to focus on creativity and connection.
The goal, however, remains the same: to strengthen international cooperation between broadcasters and encourage access to information.
World Radio Day is a reminder to thank broadcasters for the news they deliver, the voices they amplify, and the stories they share.
