MUMBAI: Dhimsa FM Radio situated in Chhapar village, Koraput could have been the first community radio station in Orissa, had it not been for its never-ending wait for a license approval.

The radio station that began its test run in 2009 went on to get a license only in February this year, that sealed its existence. Major reason for the delay was the station falling into the 'Maoist infested' area. Nevertheless, the station still is the first radio station in South Orissa and it covers 60 villages with a 50 watt FM transmitter.

Since the area being covered by Dhimsa FM is hilly, the radio transmission is easily available in 42 villages, while the others have to search for transmission. But, the station that runs four programmes daily from 9 to 12, 2 to 5, 6 to 9 and now, an additional one from 10 to 12, does its best to offer - infotainment and entertainment to its listeners.

In fact, it has also become a platform for the budding talents of South Orissa. "The local people earlier had to travel 600 km (to Bhuwaneshwar) to showcase their talent. But, now they are free to perform on our radio shows," said Dhimsa FM Radio programmer Sachinda Mohanty.

Mohanty who has witnessed 705 programs aired on the community radio further revealed that they just have two male RJs and one female RJ, who is still in the training phase.

However, the limited resources have helped the residents of South Orissa a great deal. "Earlier if one had an issue, they had to go to the district collector's office. But, now they don't have to travel too far. We invite them to our studio and the common people get an opportunity to interact with them here," stated Mohanty.

He added, "A lot of children cannot go to school because a river divides the villages. Hence, our reporters go and record the school teachings, which are later played on our shows."

The Dhimsa community station is of great importance to its community, but they are still looking up to getting DAVP empowerment to get some funds. At the moment, the station is being run by SOVA, an NGO and certain government programmes.