Sona FM 107.8 Community Radio is a channel “of the people, for the people, by the people” in the Salem district that explores local culture, music, sports, language, personalities, news, and social issues. It has been the fulfillment of a decade-long journey of the Valliappa Foundation Trustees. Sona FM’s First on-air program was aired on November 22, 2022.
Mr. Chocko Valliappa, Managing Trustee of the Valliappa Foundation and Vice-Chairman of the Sona Group launched the initiative under the Valliappa Foundation for the communities in Salem. Following further listener feedback, the station increased its live and fresh broadcasting to 16 hours starting on August 15, 2024.
He congratulated the Sona FM team and radio listeners, encouraging them to enjoy the new programs, which are now broadcast non-stop from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Dr. R. Brindha Devi IAS, Collector of Salem District, was the Chief guest at the event. She inaugurated the new programs and delivered a speech on "The Role of Radios in Community Development."
Shri C. Valliappa, Chairman of Sona Group and Trustee of the Valliappa Foundation, graced the occasion to welcome and host the esteemed District Collector on behalf of Sona FM. He congratulated the team on the growth of Sona FM Community Radio.
The event was hosted by Sona FM Community Radio presenter Padmavathi, and presenter Ilakkiya, delivered the welcome address.
Mr. K. Subramanyam, Project Manager, gave a special speech about the launch of the radio, its mission and vision, and the extension of its broadcast from 6 to 16 hours.
Smt. Gayathri, President of TNPCRA and program mentor of Sona FM Community Radio spoke on “The Emergence of Community Radios and Their Role in Community Development.”
The event also featured a performance by the "Atomz Beat Crew," who danced to songs by independent artists, in the presence of the district collector. Independent artist Mr.Parthiban also performed a song, highlighting the continued support for independent artists on Sona FM.
During the event, the presenters of Sona FM Community Radio were introduced, along with the schedule for the new programs:
Program List 2024 (Weekdays: Monday to Saturday)
| S.NO | TIMINGS | PROGRAM NAME |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 06:00 AM - 07:00 AM | Bakthi Neram |
| 2 | 07:00 AM - 09:00 AM | Nammai Sutri |
| 3 | 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Vaagai Sooda Vaa |
| 4 | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Vaazhvin Thodakkam Vivasayam |
| 5 | 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM | Salethin Mugangal |
| 6 | 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM | Endrum Nalamudan |
| 7 | 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM | Kadhai Neram |
| 8 | 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM | Lesa Lesa |
| 9 | 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM | Tech Guru |
| 10 | 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM | Ettu Thikkum Nam Kural |
| 11 | 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM | Vaaliba Vayasu |
| 12 | 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM | Back-to-Back Ssongs |
| 13 | 08:00 PM - 09:00 PM | Malaiyoram Veesum Kaatru |
| 13 | 09:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Ninaivo Oru Paravai |
Program List 2024 (Weekend: Sunday)
| S.NO | TIMINGS | PROGRAM NAME |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 07:00 AM - 08:00 AM | Netru Indru Nalai |
| 2 | 08.00 AM - 09.00 AM | Top 10 |
| 3 | 10.00 AM - 11.00 AM | Kanavugal Meipada |
| 4 | 11.00 AM - 12.00 AM | Azhaipathu Yaaro |
| 1 | 12.00 AM - 01.00 PM | Cini Cini Cinima |
Mr. Ebenezer, the Project Manager, shared details about other projects undertaken by the Valliappa Foundation. He spoke about the crucial role the listeners' community played in extending the broadcasting hours of Sona FM 107.8.
He also highlighted VF’s other active initiatives, such as Anadhanam, a tech-driven project aimed at addressing hunger, and the SMART school project, which focuses on upskilling youth. He emphasized that community engagement is essential for making these projects impactful and meaningful.
GLIMPSES OF THE EVENT
The event was well-attended. We had the Public Relations Officer of the Salem District Collectorate, Legal Assistants from the National Law Foundation, advocates, the Chief Doctor of Balaji Robotic Rehab Hospital, officers from the Salem District Animal Husbandry Department, the Salem Tamil Sangham Librarian, and other special invitees who have been associated with Sona Community Radio since its inception. Over 50 people were present at the event including listeners.
Listeners and special invites shared their experiences with Sona FM Community Radio. As a token of appreciation, all attendees were presented with plants and eco-friendly bags as souvenirs.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Akash, Project Manager of the Valliappa Foundation.
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