Community radios are a powerful tool for raising awareness in rural communities.  DNDi India Foundation partnered with Radio Rimjhim in Gopalganj, Bihar to amplify conversations around neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) like kala azar as part of World NTD Day that falls on 30 January every year.  World NTD Day has been officially recognized by the World Health Organization since 2021. This recognition drives progress on neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) by drawing greater attention, increasing political and public will, and mobilizing global action.

Radio Rimjhim created jingles and a dedicated radio play to increase awareness among the communities about kala azar, its impact, prevention and the importance of timely treatment.  

This initiative of DNDi India Foundation helped bridge the information gap on NTDs, making health education accessible and engaging. The partnership with Radio Rimjhim included a 30-second jingle aired multiple times over six days and a special 30-minute radio play that focusses on kala azar as a public health problem and solutions to beat the disease. With one original broadcast and two repeats, this radio program ensured sustained engagement and reinforcement of key messages.