Modi Lays Digital FM Transmitter Stone in Kalimpong, Sparking BJP Campaign Bid for Gorkha Support
Opposition Questions Focus on Frills Amid Unfulfilled Promises as Language, Land, and Identity Remain Key Issues
On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually lay the groundwork for the establishment of a digital FM transmitter in Kalimpong. Several BJP politicians are using this event to draw attention to the Center's concerns with Nepali-speaking Indian Gorkhas.
Language, identity, and land are the three main polling concerns in the area. Once configured, a digital FM transmitter will provide greater reach and clarity for FM radio services in Kalimpong.
In a written statement, Darjeeling BJP MP Raju Bista stated, "I am happy to share that on the 19th of January, 2024 Hon'ble Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi ji will be laying the foundation stone for the establishment of a Digital FM Transmitter in Kalimpong."
A digital FM transmitter is scheduled to be erected in Kalimpong under the government Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) project, at an approximate cost of Rs 3.36 crore.
"My bigger goal is to see that a DD Gorkha Channel is developed, and I will need all of your support and assistance to achieve this. Even though good things take time, I'm certain we can succeed with my efforts and your help, said Bista.
The BJP MP claimed to have asked Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Anurag Thakur to enhance Kalimpong's FM station.
In the area, Bista enumerated the Center's endeavors on All India Radio (AIR).
Since December 2022, AIR Kurseong has been elevated to the status of "National Hub for Nepali news bulletin and programmes in India." The News on AIR app allows listeners worldwide access to the Nepali news bulletin and programs produced by Akashvani Kurseong, according to Bista, who also said that the news unit of Kurseong employed around thirty young people.
Since its August 2022 premiere on DD Bangla, the music-based Nepali show Saptarangi has acquired a devoted following. The 10 kW FM transmitter in Darjeeling relays Nepali programs of the Kurseong radio station, according to Bista. "All the local music/dance groups in our Darjeeling hills, the Terai and the Dooars region are getting a chance to show their talent," Bista said.
The BJP MP was questioned by opposition leaders over the party's campaign pledges in 2019. "I won't want to remark right away since I am unaware of Raju ji's declaration. A leader of the Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha said, "I would like to remind our BJP MP, however, that instead of talking about radio stations, he should focus on getting tribal status to 11 communities and granting a permanent political solution to his voters promised before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls and not seek an escape route."
