Radio Gaga Brings Kuki, Meitei, Naga Voices Together in Manipur

The northeastern state of Manipur has long been a flashpoint for ethnic tensions between the Kuki, Meitei and Naga communities. In an effort to bridge divides, a local community radio station, Radio Gaga, has begun broadcasting programs that feature speakers from all three groups.

Launched last year, Radio Gaga operates from a modest studio in Imphal and is run by volunteers who believe that shared media can foster understanding. Each show invites a Kuki, a Meitei and a Naga host to discuss local issues, culture and history, all while speaking in their native tongues.

Listeners report that hearing familiar voices from rival communities on the same mic has softened attitudes and sparked conversations that were previously avoided. The station’s producers say the format encourages respectful debate and highlights common interests such as agriculture, education and youth employment.

While the initiative is still in its early stages, Radio Gaga’s success has prompted calls for similar projects in other conflict‑affected regions of India. The station plans to expand its reach by streaming online and training more volunteers to sustain the dialogue it has started.