Neha Kapoor
Independent Researcher
Chandigarh, India
Abstract
This study investigates the role and effectiveness of educational radio broadcasts in regional languages on improving rural literacy in India between 1990 and 2010. Drawing upon a mixed-methods design, the research comprises a structured survey of 200 rural residents across three linguistically diverse districts—one each in Uttar Pradesh (Hindi), Tamil Nadu (Tamil), and West Bengal (Bengali)—alongside an in-depth review of archival program reports, mission statements, and NGO evaluations from All India Radio and state literacy missions. The survey explored respondents’ exposure frequency to regional-language educational programming, self-assessed literacy skill levels before and after program engagement, participation in interactive segments, and socio-demographic characteristics. Quantitative analyses reveal significant gains in reading, writing, and comprehension skills, with average self-reported literacy scores rising by over 1.5 points on a five-point scale for weekly listeners. Regression models controlling for baseline literacy, age, gender, caste, and formal education show that regular exposure predicts a 0.9-point increase in literacy outcomes (p < .01), with interactive program components (e.g., call-in segments, village listening clubs) contributing an additional 0.3-point boost (p < .05). Notably, gains were most pronounced among women and members of historically marginalized castes, underscoring radio’s capacity to reach underserved populations. Qualitative content analysis of program documents indicates that culturally relevant content, local storytelling formats, and community feedback loops reinforced listener engagement and skill practice. Limitations include potential recall bias inherent in retrospective self-assessment and the constrained generalizability of findings beyond the three sampled states. The study concludes by recommending the integration of community listening groups, adaptation of local cultural narratives, and the leveraging of digital radio and mobile streaming technologies to scale regional-language educational broadcasts. These insights inform policymakers and practitioners seeking cost-effective, inclusive literacy interventions in rural contexts.
Keywords
Educational Radio Broadcasts, Regional Languages, Rural Literacy, India, 1990–2010
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