Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary (Broadcasting), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, on April 25 held a review meeting with officers and staff of Akashvani from Kargil and Leh to assess operational challenges and chart measures for strengthening local broadcasting services.

The meeting was attended by Gurbinder Singh, Sonam Angchuk, Khurshid Ahmad, along with the Deputy Director Leh and other officials and staff.

Detailed deliberations focused on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of Akashvani Kargil. Key issues included concerns over the shifting of a sanctioned administrative post from Kargil to Leh, which has resulted in functional constraints; the need to establish a separate cluster with allied stations; the initiation of a Programme Generating Facility (PGF) at Kargil; expansion of locally produced programmes; and strengthening manpower to better serve regional languages, culture, and public interest.

The meeting highlighted the urgency of administrative reforms, including the restoration of Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) powers to prevent delays in artist payments and contractual processes, and the appointment of a separate Cluster Head for Akashvani Kargil to address region-specific operational requirements.

Participants also emphasised the introduction of morning programmes in Purgi and other local dialects, along with the engagement of local cultural experts and artists to enhance authenticity and relevance. Increasing local content was seen as essential for preserving and promoting Kargil’s rich art, language, and cultural heritage.

Addressing the gathering, the Joint Secretary noted the strong public reliance on radio in Kargil and highlighted the district’s unique geography and strategic importance as key reasons to further strengthen broadcasting services. He observed that Kargil’s distinct linguistic and cultural diversity deserves focused preservation, with radio serving as a vital medium for documentation and dissemination.

Assuring prompt action, he stated that all feasible steps would be taken to address the concerns raised and to strengthen both infrastructure and administrative mechanisms.

Earlier, the Joint Secretary also held a brief meeting with Mohammad Hanifa Jan, during which similar issues concerning Akashvani Kargil were discussed.

In addition, Arif Ladakhi, on behalf of the Dard Aryan community, submitted a memorandum seeking the introduction of programmes in Brokskat. Compères, announcers, and artists of Akashvani Kargil also presented a memorandum demanding restoration of the DDG post, resolution of pending payments, and the commencement of morning transmissions.