Sangham Radio: Empowering Rural Voices in Telangana by all Women-led Community Radio!

"All oppression creates a state of war," Simone de Beauvoir once remarked, highlighting the perpetual struggle mixed with a woman's everyday life, blended in a jar like a cocktail. This observation holds everywhere, especially in the ruralmost parts of the Indian subcontinent, where entrenched patriarchal norms continue to marginalise women. For instance, nearly one in four young women in India (23%) were married or in union before their 18th birthday, with higher prevalence in rural areas, as mentioned in a report by childmarriagedata.com. Amid this silence, Sangham Radio, a community-run station in Telangana, rises as a rare and radical platform—one where rural Dalit women not only speak but are heard, reclaiming narratives long buried beneath layers of social conditioning.

From Daughter to Grandmother: The Silent Struggles of Rural Women

Furthermore, girls from financially backward households or those with little to no education are at greater risk of child marriage. Their identity becomes transferable-a daughter, now a wife, then a mother and eventually dies as a grandmother, all identities in association with their male counterpart. These grim realities underscore the systemic challenges faced by rural women in India, emphasising the urgent need for platforms that amplify their voices and address their unique struggles.

Voices of Change: How Sangham Radio Empowers Rural Telangana

Established in 2008 in Machnoor village, Telangana, Sangham Radio is India's first all-female community radio station, operated entirely by Dalit women. With support from the Deccan Development Society, the station broadcasts daily from 7 pm to 9 pm, reaching approximately 100 villages within a 25-kilometer radius and serving a population close to 50,000.

Its programming encompasses a diverse range of topics, including sustainable farming techniques, women's rights, health awareness, local folklore, and cultural preservation. Usually, the mainstream expensive cameras highlight the faces of elderly women only when their next of kin is the culprit of some incident, leading to society blaming her for the nature of her parenting, which started at the tender age of 15. By featuring elderly villagers narrating traditional stories and songs, Sangham Radio plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the community's rich heritage while also giving the aged population a sense of identity. Their USP? Unlike many channels that merely discuss the scars on the tissues of a woman’s body emerging from instances of domestic violence, the platform addresses these social issues by inviting legal experts to discuss, deliberate and debate, thereby educating women about their rights and available legal remedies. Through these efforts, Sangham Radio not only disseminates vital information but also fosters a sense of unity and empowerment among rural women, enabling them to assert control over their narratives and advocate for societal change.

Beyond Clinics: Reviving Telangana’s Traditional Health Practices

​In contemporary society, healthcare is often equated with visiting doctors and utilising pharmaceutical treatments. However, in rural Telangana, traditional medicinal practices remain integral to community health, emphasising self-reliance and holistic well-being. Sangham Radio plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting these indigenous health traditions by broadcasting programs that delve into autonomous health practices, including the use of traditional medicine, nutrition, and preventive care.​

One such practice is the use of herbal remedies derived from local flora. For instance, the leaves of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica) are renowned for their antiseptic properties similar to turmeric (Curcuma longa), which is applied as a paste to alleviate inflammation and promote healing. By featuring discussions and interviews with local healers and knowledgeable elders, Sangham Radio facilitates the transmission of this valuable knowledge, ensuring its continuity and accessibility.

Moreover, the station addresses broader health topics such as nutrition and preventive care. Programs often highlight the importance of a balanced diet, incorporating locally available, nutrient-rich foods to prevent common ailments like anaemia and malnutrition. Listeners are educated on the benefits of traditional dietary practices, such as consuming millet, which is high in fibre and essential minerals. Through these initiatives, Sangham Radio not only disseminates crucial health information but also empowers the community to take proactive steps toward maintaining their health, fostering a culture of self-care and resilience.

Staying Tuned: Technical and Financial Obstacles of Community Broadcasting

​Sangham Radio, despite its significant contributions to empowering rural women in Telangana, faces several challenges that hinder its operations and outreach. One primary issue is financial instability; the station has struggled to secure adequate funding for essential needs such as updating equipment, maintaining infrastructure, and compensating staff. For instance, in 2018, Sangham Radio was on the verge of shutting down due to a financial crisis, prompting efforts to crowdsource funds to keep it operational. Additionally, the station encounters technical difficulties, including issues with transmitter power output and transmission lines, which can affect the quality and range of broadcasts. These technical challenges necessitate continuous maintenance and occasional upgrades, further straining limited resources.

Echoes of Empowerment: The Lasting Legacy of Sangham Radio

​Sangham Radio's impact extends beyond broadcasting; it has become a catalyst for community-driven development and social transformation. By providing a platform for marginalised voices, it fosters inclusivity and collective action within the community. The station's emphasis on traditional knowledge and local issues not only educates but also instils a sense of pride and ownership among listeners. Through its dedicated efforts, Sangham Radio exemplifies the profound influence of community media in nurturing informed, resilient, and empowered societies.