World Radio Day 2026

World Radio Day is being observed on 13 February across the globe today to mark the anniversary of the establishment of United Nations Radio in 1946.

The theme for 2026 — “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a tool, not a voice” — highlights the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in the broadcasting ecosystem. It underlines how AI can support content production, archiving, translation, audience engagement and accessibility, making radio more efficient and inclusive.

At the same time, the theme stresses that technology should remain a support system rather than a substitute for the human voice, editorial judgement and credibility that define radio as a trusted medium.

In India, Akashvani continues to play a vital role in public broadcasting. Established in 1936 and brought under public ownership after Independence, Akashvani has served the nation with the motto “Bahujan Hitaya, Bahujan Sukhaya” (for the welfare and happiness of the masses). Over the decades, it has grown into one of the largest broadcasting organisations in the world in terms of the number of languages broadcast and the diversity of audiences served.