The Centre has decided to give maximum boost and impetus to Community Radio Stations to ensure participatory communication on the flagship programs of the government.

Speaking exclusively to All India Radio in New Delhi today, Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Ambika Soni said the total number of Community Radio Stations that stood at around 30 two years back had gone up to 135. And 240 more Community Radio stations are in the pipeline for clearances from various departments, she added.

The Information and Broadcasting Minister said Radio was the best way to reach out to the target group of people enabling them to avail the benefits of the massive development schemes being implemented by the government.

Soni emphasised that all efforts should be made for knowledge about the massive Government development programs benefitting the rural people, the farmers and the poor and under previleged should percolate to the grass root level.

The minister said the suggestions from the Open House forum of the three-day workshop being held in New Delhi on Community Radio, led by the Joint Secretary, Information and Broadcasting, Supriya Sahu will be utilised to fine tune Radio communication to meet the requirements of the local people.