World Radio Day 2026: History, theme, significance, and celebrations

World Radio Day is a global observance that celebrates one of the most trusted and extensive forms of mass communication. PM Modi hails its input from Mann Ki Baat and refers to it as a reliable media

World Radio Day honours a medium that continues to speak to millions—often with nothing more than a signal and a simple receiver. Long before smartphones and streaming apps, radio became a companion in homes, fields and far-flung corners of the world.  Even today, its strength lies in its simplicity: no internet, no expensive gadgets, no digital learning curve—just sound travelling across distances, bringing information, music and voices together beyond economic, geographic and social divides.

 

Every year on February 13, the day is observed to honour radio's contribution to community education, democracy, and cross-cultural and cross-regional connections. On Friday, Indian Prime Minister Modi also praised the importance of radio on World Radio Day.

 

PM Modi on World Radio Day 2026

On World Radio Day 2026, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi focused on the importance of radio. Additionally, he reminded the public to submit ideas for his Mann Ki Baat program's upcoming broadcast on Sunday, February 22.

 

PM Modi posted on X, "World Radio Day is about celebrating a medium that is a trusted voice for people, be it in remote villages or bustling cities. For years, the radio has delivered timely information, amplified talent and encouraged creativity. This is a day to acknowledge the efforts of all those associated with this medium".

 

He added, "Through Mann Ki Baat, I have experienced the potential of the radio firsthand in bringing out the societal strength of our people. This month's programme will take place on Sunday, 22nd February. Do share your inputs for the programme".

World Radio Day 2026 Theme

"Radio with Artificial Intelligence" is the theme for World Radio Day 2026, and it is based on the tenet that "AI is a tool, not a voice." It highlights how artificial intelligence is changing radio broadcasting while highlighting the importance of human judgment, ethics, and inventiveness in journalism. 

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— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) February 13, 2026

 

History of World Radio Day

World Radio Day is a worldwide event that emphasises radio's ability to inform, educate, bring people together, and strengthen communities. It is organised by UNESCO and recognised by the UN. First observed in 2012, it was declared by UNESCO in 2011.

 

The founding date of United Nations Radio was set for February 13th, 1946. Since then, the day has been observed yearly to promote support for broadcasters around the world and to increase awareness of the significance of the technology.

2026 World Radio Day celebrations

This year's celebration's theme invites all voices to consider creating an inventive, accessible, and moral future for radio as artificial intelligence continues to transform media creation and dissemination.

 

Pune celebrated World Radio Day 2026 with an evening of discussions and a video screening at Firodia Hall, Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, fusing nostalgia with discussions about the future. 

The event explored how the reliable medium continues to change in a world that is becoming more digitalised, and it was planned in accordance with UNESCO's 2026 theme, Radio and Artificial Intelligence (AI).