Introductory Session on Ham Radio for Aga Khan Agency for Habitat India

Occasion: World Amateur Radio Day – April 18, 2025
Venue: InfoCity Resort, Gandhinagar

On the occasion of World Amateur Radio Day 2025, an introductory session on Ham Radio was organized by the Gujarat Institute of Amateur Radio (GIAR) in collaboration with the representatives of the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat India.

The session was held at Infocity Resort, Gandhinagar, during an ongoing workshop focused on relief and rescue operations during disasters with volunteers from various backgrounds.

Session Highlights

  • Mr. Pravin Valera (VU2CPV) led the session with an informative slideshow presentation, providing an overview of amateur radio, its working principles, and its critical role during disaster response. He explained in simple terms how HAM radio serves as a lifeline in times when traditional communication networks fail.
  • Dr. Jagdish Pandya (VU2JGI) actively interacted with the participants, addressing their questions and clarifications about licensing, operations, and the importance of HAM radio during emergencies.
  • Mr. Mohsin Pirani, Programme Officer, played a key role in initiating and coordinating the session, ensuring smooth engagement between the volunteers and the speakers.

Focus Areas

  • Basics of amateur radio communication
  • Importance of HAM radio during disasters
  • How to become a licensed amateur radio operator
  • Real-life examples where HAM radio was instrumental in emergency situations

The session was highly interactive and well-received by the volunteers, many of whom expressed a strong interest in pursuing amateur radio certifications to enhance their capabilities in disaster relief work.

Conclusion

The collaboration between GIAR and the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat India marked an important step in spreading awareness about amateur radio’s role in community resilience and emergency communications. The Gujarat Institute of Amateur Radio thanks the organizers and participants for their enthusiastic involvement, making the event a memorable success.