Pune Akashvani News Division will not be shut down, says Ashwini Vaishnaw

Pune Akashvani. Pic/ Special Arrangement

Amid recent speculation regarding the possible closure of the news division of the historic Pune Akashvani (All India Radio) station, Union Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, and Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw has assured that the division will continue to function.

Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation and Pune MP Murlidhar Mohol took up the matter with him. During their meeting, Vaishnaw categorically assured that the Pune Akashvani News Division would continue to function and would not be shut down under any circumstances, effectively putting an end to the ongoing speculation.

Vaishnaw was in Pune to inaugurate several railway development projects and launch new railway services. Mohol welcomed him at Pune International Airport and raised concerns regarding reports about the possible closure of the Pune Akashvani News Division. He urged the minister to ensure the continuation of the department. In response, Vaishnaw clarified that the Central Government has neither proposed nor considered shutting down the Pune Akashvani News Division.

The Pune Akashvani News Division has a rich legacy spanning several decades and enjoys a deep emotional connection with listeners across Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, the district, and other parts of Maharashtra.

Over the years, Akashvani has earned public trust as a reliable source of local news, social issues, cultural programming, and public information. Mohol conveyed these public sentiments and concerns to the Union Minister.

Clarifying the government's position, Vaishnaw said, "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is working towards the modernisation and strengthening of Akashvani centres across the country. We are making continuous efforts to make Akashvani more effective, modern, and people-centric. Therefore, there is no question of shutting down the Pune Akashvani News Division. On the contrary, our focus is on strengthening local news dissemination and public outreach. The Central Government remains committed to upgrading Akashvani centres in Maharashtra and across India."

Reacting to the assurance, Mohol said, "Pune Akashvani has a glorious history and continues to be a trusted source of news for millions of listeners. I conveyed the sentiments and expectations of the listeners to Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who responded positively and assured that the Pune Akashvani News Division will continue to function. This assurance should put an end to all rumours regarding its closure. I sincerely thank the minister for the Centre's commitment to the modernisation and strengthening of Akashvani."

Pune Akashvani is not merely a broadcasting institution but an integral part of Pune's cultural, social, and journalistic heritage.

The discussions between the two leaders reaffirmed the Central Government's commitment to preserving, strengthening, and modernising the institution while ensuring its continued service to the public.