MUMBAI: The timing of the Radio Congress organised by AROI (Association of radio operators of India) is quite appropriate for the radio industry. The convention will take place on 12 November at Le Meridian Hotel in New Delhi.

The association has partnered with sponsors to get the convention in place. AROI secretary general Uday Chawla said, "We do not hold it every year, but we realised it is time that the convention takes place. The auction is happening and it is very important to have the convention now as it will help bring all the stakeholders together. It will help the bankers, shareholders, professional managers, equipment suppliers, and others by socialising with each other.

There will be sessions in the morning which will be followed by awards for Social development. The theme this year is 'The power of Radio' and will be attended by around 350 attendees from across the ministry, radio stations, international companies and journalists.

Chawla also added that AROI has requested PM Narendra Modi to deliver a lecture on 'The vision of the nation in the memories of Mahatma Gandhi'. 12 November holds special significance for radio industry as that was the first and the last time 'The Father of the nation' addressed the nation on All India Radio (AIR) and called it a "powerful medium". "It is a special day for radio and we would like to celebrate it with the same charm," Chawla added.

He further added, "It is time that we highlight radio as we have survived, which was the difficult part. Now it is time to grow."

AROI is the official association of private commercial radio stations in India which is why the convention will see radio players like Big FM, Radio Mirchi, Red FM, Radio City, My FM, Radio Mango, Fever FM, Radio Chokolate, Radio Mantra, Radio Misty and many others participate.