Important Days 12 November 2026
Public Service Broadcasting Day 2026: Remembering Mahatma Gandhi’s Historic Address
Why in the News?
**Public Service Broadcasting Day** (also known as *Jan Prasaran Diwas*) is observed annually across India on **November 12** to commemorate the historic radio address delivered by Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi through All India Radio (Akashvani).
Key Features / Major Points:
- Historical Significance (November 12, 1947):
- On this day in 1947, Mahatma Gandhi paid his first and only visit to the Broadcasting House in New Delhi.
- He addressed thousands of grief-stricken refugees displaced during the Partition of India who were temporarily sheltered in camps at Kurukshetra, Haryana.
- Institutionalization of the Day:
- In **2000**, then Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, **Sushma Swaraj**, officially declared November 12 as Public Service Broadcasting Day.
- Commemorative Celebrations:
- Akashvani marks the occasion annually with special programmes, panel discussions, and devotional bhajans cherished by Mahatma Gandhi.
- Inspires public broadcasters and media personnel to uphold the Gandhian values of truth, public welfare, and social responsibility.
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Static GK Facts:
- All India Radio (AIR / Akashvani):
- Established: **1936** | Headquarters: **New Delhi**.
- Operating under: Prasar Bharati (India's Public Service Broadcaster).
- Bapu Studio:
- In March 2023, Akashvani officially dedicated the exact studio space where Mahatma Gandhi spoke as **Bapu Studio**.
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Q: When is Public Service Broadcasting Day celebrated in India every year?
A: November 12
Q: Mahatma Gandhi's historic 1947 radio address from New Delhi was aimed at comforting displaced refugees at which camp?
A: Kurukshetra Camp
Q: Who officially declared November 12 as Public Service Broadcasting Day in the year 2000?
A: Sushma Swaraj
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