Impact of the Community Radio on Local Development in Chapai Nawabganj, Bangladesh

Abstract

Community radio serves as a platform for rural, marginalized, and hard-to-reach populations to express and exchange views, ideas, and concerns with the wider community. Its increasing popularity in recent years has provided both policymakers and grassroots individuals with an avenue to engage in the development process of their communities. In Bangladesh, community radio stations now broadcast 170 hours of daily programs, with the majority aimed at addressing local development goals in rural areas. These programs motivate people, bridge gaps, and collaborate on agendas such as poverty reduction, reducing inequalities, promoting education, good health, clean water, and sanitation. Additionally, community radio has provided a platform for the poor and marginalized communities to raise their voices and become the voice for the voiceless. This study, conducted using participatory theory, aims to underscore the significance and impact of community radio on the development of marginalized community at Chapai Nawabganj, Rajshahi, Bangladesh. The findings indicate that community radio plays a crucial role in local development, providing essential information and bridging the gap between ordinary people and local government in rural areas. The current research was carried out in Chapai Nawabganj, Rajshahi, Bangladesh, with the support of the local community radio station, Radio Mahananda 98.8 FM. The study found that involvement in and awareness of Radio Mahananda programs significantly influenced local development.