Uttarakhand is set to launch its first science-focused community radio station, based at the Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST) in Dehradun. Once fully operational, listeners can tune in to 88.8 MHz to hear directly from scientists about innovations, research, and how scientific advancements are improving everyday life.
Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited (BECIL) has successfully completed the setup of the station. A successful trial run was conducted on Saturday in the presence of UCOST Director General Prof. Durgesh Pant, who also inspected the setup.
The radio station will feature scientists from across India who will simplify scientific knowledge for the general public. It will also broadcast awareness programs for two hours daily, aimed especially at students to spark interest in science. Professors from research institutes across the state will be invited to share their work and explain its relevance to society.
Under the “One University-One Research” initiative, many public and private universities in Uttarakhand are conducting research as per directions from the Governor. These researchers will use the radio platform to share the societal impact of their findings.
A transmitter and tower have already been installed at the UCOST campus. The radio signal will cover a 10-kilometre radius, reaching a significant part of Dehradun. In times of natural disaster, this station could also play a crucial role in disseminating scientific and safety information.
UCOST is planning to begin regular broadcasting on June 5, aligning with World Environment Day, marking a significant step toward public science engagement in the state.
