A New Voice for the Community
Sri Manakula Vinayagar Engineering College (SMVEC), Puducherry, marked a significant milestone with the grand launch of NILA FM 90.4, its Community Radio Station, providing a platform for communication, knowledge sharing, creativity, entertainment and meaningful community engagement.
Special Pooja Ceremony
A special Pooja ceremony was conducted as part of the NILA FM inauguration, seeking blessings for the successful beginning and continued growth of the community radio station. The Pooja was attended by the management members, Director, Deans and other faculty and staff members, who joined together in marking the auspicious commencement of NILA FM 90.4.
Arrival of the Chief Guest
The Chief Guest, RJ Bhavana, was warmly received by the management members and senior officials of SMVEC upon her arrival at the campus.
Interaction with the Management Members
Following her arrival, RJ Bhavana interacted with the management members. The interaction provided an opportunity to exchange thoughts and ideas about NILA FM, its vision and its role in connecting the institution with the wider community.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
The inaugural ceremony commenced with the ribbon-cutting ceremony, formally marking the launch of NILA FM 90.4 and symbolising the beginning of a new journey in community broadcasting at SMVEC.
Ceremonial Switching On of NILA FM Equipment
A significant moment of the launch was the ceremonial switching on of the NILA FM equipment by the Chief Guest, officially activating the broadcasting facilities and marking the commencement of the station’s broadcasting journey.
Live Broadcast with the Chairman
The inaugural celebrations featured a live broadcast by RJ Bhavana with Shri M. Dhanasekaran, Chairman & Managing Director, SMVET, offering an engaging introduction to the vision and purpose behind NILA FM.
Live Interview with the Chairman
As part of the live broadcast, RJ Bhavana conducted an interview with the Chairman, providing insights into the vision, objectives and aspirations associated with NILA FM and its role in connecting the institution with the community.
NILA FM Board Signing
The NILA FM board was signed by the management members and the Chief Guest, RJ Bhavana, as a special part of the inauguration ceremony. The signing symbolised their support and marked a memorable beginning to the journey of NILA FM 90.4 at SMVEC.
Thamizh Thai Vaazhthu and SMVEC Anthem
The formal inaugural programme commenced with Thamizh Thai Vaazhthu, followed by the SMVEC Anthem, setting a respectful and ceremonial tone for the celebrations.
NILA FM Intro Video
An introductory video on NILA FM was presented to the gathering, showcasing the concept, purpose and vision of the community radio station and highlighting its potential to connect, inspire and engage listeners.
Lighting of the Lamp
The traditional lighting of the lamp was performed by the dignitaries, symbolising the beginning of a new initiative and representing knowledge, positivity and a bright future for NILA FM.
Welcome Address
The Welcome Address was delivered by Dr. V.S.K. Venkatachalapathy, Director cum Principal, SMVEC, who warmly welcomed the chief guest, management members, dignitaries, Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty members, staff and students. He highlighted the visionary initiative behind establishing the community radio station nearly two decades ago and appreciated the continuous efforts of the management and staff in relaunching NILA FM 90.4. He emphasised that NILA FM is primarily a platform for students and the community to share their voices, showcase their talents and engage meaningfully, and encouraged students to actively make use of the station.
Honouring the Dignitaries
The dignitaries and senior members of the institution were felicitated during the programme, acknowledging their valuable presence and continued support towards the development of innovative initiatives at SMVEC.
Felicitation Address
Shri D. Rajarajan, Treasurer, SMVET, delivered the Felicitation Address, highlighting the successful relaunch of NILA FM 90.4 and the efforts taken to create a modern and well-equipped community radio studio. He emphasised that NILA FM is “for the students, by the students”, providing a platform to showcase their talents, ideas and creativity. He encouraged students to actively participate in the upcoming auditions, contribute innovative programme ideas and explore internship opportunities through the station. He also highlighted the importance of creating engaging and socially relevant content that connects with the community and encouraged students to take an active role in making NILA FM a successful and vibrant platform.
Presidential Address
Shri M. Dhanasekaran, Chancellor, Takshashila University and Chairman & Managing Director, SMVET, delivered the Presidential Address and spoke about the vision and journey behind NILA FM 90.4. He recalled the initiative of establishing the community radio station in 2004 and highlighted its significance as a platform for technological learning, student talent development and community engagement. He encouraged students to understand the technical aspects of broadcasting while also developing their communication, interviewing and creative skills. He emphasised that NILA FM can provide opportunities for students to showcase their talents, gain practical experience and explore careers in radio, media and related fields. He further encouraged students to use the platform creatively and meaningfully to share knowledge, ideas and opportunities with the wider community.
Chief Guest Address
Mrs. Bhavana Balakrishnan, RJ and Television Host, delivered an engaging and motivational address, congratulating SMVEC on the launch of NILA FM 90.4 and highlighting the power of radio as a medium for communication and community engagement. Drawing from her experience in radio, she encouraged students to actively participate in NILA FM and use it as a platform to showcase their talents, creativity and ideas. Through inspiring examples and interactive activities, she emphasised the importance of positivity, hard work, smart work and stepping out of one’s comfort zone to embrace new opportunities. She encouraged students to make the most of NILA FM and expressed her confidence that the platform could open new avenues for their personal and professional growth.
Students’ Interaction with RJ Bhavana
An interactive session with RJ Bhavana and the students was conducted as part of the programme, providing students with an opportunity to engage with her, exchange ideas and experience an inspiring interaction centred around radio and communication.
NILA FM Logo Reveal
The official NILA FM logo was unveiled by the management members, marking a special moment in the inaugural ceremony and formally introducing the visual identity of the newly launched community radio station.
Vote of Thanks
Dr. L. M. Varalakshmi, Professor, ECE, SMVEC, delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to the management, dignitaries, Chief Guest, faculty, staff and students for their presence and support in the successful launch of NILA FM 90.4.
National Anthem
The inaugural programme concluded with the National Anthem, bringing the grand launch ceremony of NILA FM 90.4 to a formal and dignified close.
Conclusion
The launch of NILA FM 90.4 marked a new chapter for SMVEC, providing students and the community with a platform for communication, creativity, learning and engagement. The event concluded on a memorable note, marking the beginning of an exciting journey for NILA FM. The station will empower students to showcase their talents and ideas through meaningful programmes. It is envisioned to become a vibrant voice that connects the institution with the wider community.
