Reviving Thadou Radio Broadcasting in Manipur

Background of the Recent Decision

Reviving Thadou Radio Broadcasting in Manipur: Prasar Bharati has initiated steps to restart live radio broadcasts in the Thadou language from All India Radio Imphal. These broadcasts were suspended during the ethnic violence that erupted in Manipur in 2023.

The move reflects a renewed effort to restore linguistic inclusion and rebuild trust among communities affected by prolonged unrest. Public broadcasting is being used as a platform for cultural reassurance.

Static GK fact: Prasar Bharati was established in 1997 as India’s autonomous public service broadcasting corporation.

Why the Issue Gained Importance

The restoration plan follows repeated representations from Thadou Inpi Manipur, a key community body. Live broadcasts had stopped after Thadou-speaking staff relocated from the Imphal Valley due to security concerns.

Since then, only recorded Thadou songs have been aired, limiting meaningful community engagement. The absence of live programming weakened cultural visibility during a sensitive period.

Administrative Measures Underway

Prasar Bharati has begun internal coordination to resume live broadcasts in Thadou. Inputs have been sought from the programme leadership at AIR Imphal to assess feasibility.

Efforts are focused on staffing arrangements for Thadou and other dialect-based programmes. Options include recalling experienced staff or initiating fresh recruitment to ensure continuity.

Static GK Tip: All India Radio is also known as Akashvani, a name adopted in 1957.

Impact of the 2023 Ethnic Violence

The ethnic clashes in Manipur primarily involved tensions between Meitei and Kuki groups. These disturbances severely disrupted regional broadcasting operations.

Live Thadou programmes ceased in May 2023, when broadcasters could no longer safely operate from the valley. Currently, recorded Thadou content is broadcast daily for a short slot from 5:00 to 5:30 pm.

Language, Identity and Peacebuilding

Language broadcasting is closely tied to cultural identity and social recognition. Thadou leaders have emphasized that live programmes are vital for preserving traditions and oral heritage.

Concerns over the misidentification of Thadou identity were addressed during peace meetings. Community assurances of coexistence are expected to encourage broadcasters to return safely.

Static GK fact: The Indian Constitution supports linguistic diversity through Articles 29 and 30, which protect cultural and educational rights.

Wider Context of Thadou Identity Assertion

The broadcast revival comes amid stronger identity assertions by the Thadou community. In August 2024, the killing of Thadou leader Nehkam Jomhao intensified concerns over recognition and security.

Subsequently, a convention held in Guwahati in November 2024 adopted a declaration reaffirming Thadou as an independent indigenous tribe. Thadou is officially recognised under the 1956 Presidential Order.

Role of Public Broadcasting in Inclusion

Prasar Bharati, through Akashvani, broadcasts in multiple regional and tribal languages across India. Such programming supports inclusion, cultural continuity, and social harmony.

The decision to restore Thadou live broadcasts aligns with the broader mandate of public service broadcasting in nation-building and conflict-sensitive communication.

Static GK Tip: Tribal languages in India largely belong to the Indo-Aryan, Dravidian, and Tibeto-Burman language families.

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Reviving Thadou Radio Broadcasting in Manipur: