Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) achieved a milestone with Chancellor, Lt. Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain, inaugurating the Community Radio Station, Radio CUKashmir 90.8 FM, under the Department of Communication and Journalism (DCJ) at Tulmulla campus here on Saturday.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, Registrar, Prof. M Afzal Zargar, Deans of Schools, Finance Officer, Heads and Coordinators of the departments, faculty members, administrative staff, scholars and students.

In the first broadcast on the CUKashmir 90.8 FM beamed across the district, Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain, described the Community Radio as a transformative medium that not only supplements and promotes education among masses, but also plays a pivotal and critical role in combating the social evils, challenges and malpractices like drug abuse, corruption, rampant suicides and raises awareness about the natural disasters. “Community Radio is a medium which reaches to the unreached,” Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain remarked. Hailing the CUKashmir for launching the Community Radio, he said the forum should be used to promote the sustainable development goals as envisaged by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, in order to achieve the dream of the Viksit Bharat @ 2047.  Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain, further added that the Community Radio can be extremely helpful in disseminating information about the disaster management. “Kashmir being a seismic zone and flood prone as gauged from the devastating 2005 earthquake and 2014 floods, the Community Radio should prepare awareness programmes about the disaster management and inform the people about the ways and means to protect the lives and property during the adverse situations,” he added.

In his broadcast, Vice Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath, said, the inauguration of Radio CUKashmir 90.8 FM marks the beginning of a new era in community-driven broadcasting at the CUKashmir. "As the radio waves of CUKashmir begin to resonate across the region, they carry with them the promise of empowerment, education, awareness, and meaningful engagement for all,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath said. He asked the DCJ to focus on disseminating information about various initiatives launched by the Government of India including the Swachh Bharat, Swasth Bharat and issues pertaining to climate change and environmental degradation. “The awareness programmes broadcast through the channel should further improve the quality of life of the people across the district,” he added. Prof. A Ravinder Nath, said the university is committed to provide zero-carbon campus to its students and is making strenuous efforts for the same. Calling communication as the foundation of progress in the contemporary era, he further added that it connects people, drives change, and empowers societies, making it an indispensable tool for personal, professional, and global development.

A recorded message from Dr. R. Sreedher, Former Director of CEMCA, was also played on the occasion, wherein he congratulated the university for launching the Community Radio. “Radio CUKashmir 90.8 FM is not just a frequency; it will be a voice for the people. It will serve as a powerful platform for local communities to share stories, ideas, and knowledge.” Dr. Sreedher further asked the DCJ to continuously discuss the prevalent health issues and promote cultural events.

DAA and Dean School of Media Studies, Prof. Shahid Rasool, who conducted the first on air programme, said the channel will provide a suitable platform for the people, especially youth, of the district to showcase and exhibit their hidden talent.  “One of the most significant advantages of community radio is its ability to preserve and promote local cultures, traditions and languages. Community radio stations will fill the gap by broadcasting programmes having local relevance,” he said. Prof. Shahid added that the channel will not only air programmes based on education, but will also discuss and deliberate the contemporary and burning social issues.  He further said the community radio is a powerful tool for education, empowerment, and community development and CUKashmir will encourage participation for the same. Prof. Shahid Rasool also hailed the role of Sr. Asst Prof and Station Manager, Dr. Asif Khan for his role in the establishment of the Community Radio.

Registrar, Prof. M Afzal Zargar in his address highlighted the significance of community radio in modern education and social outreach. He emphasized the role of Radio CUKashmir in bridging the gap between academia and the community, providing a medium for students and faculty members to share insights and knowledge with a broader audience.

HoD, DCJ, Dr. Arif Nazir ended the first broadcast by proposing the vote of thanks

Later, the Chancellor interacted with the faculty and senior functionaries of the university, which was conducted by Dr. Asif Khan.