What is Amateur Radio?

Amateur Radio is a scientific activity popularly known as “Ham Radio”. Amateur radio operators use two way radio stations and communicate with others similarly authorized using various modes of communication like voice, morse code, computers, internet etc. The things that amateur radio operators do with their radios are as diverse as the people themselves. The advanced amateur radio communication techniques include Automatic Position Reporting Systems using GPS information, Internet linking of Repeater stations, Interface with internet for exchange of emails, images etc as well as visual communication modes.

Amateur (HAM) Radio is both a Hobby activity and Service. It is an activity of self learning, inter-communication & technical investigation carried on the duly authorized persons (i.e. Amateur Radio Operators) for a personal aim and without pecuniary interest. There are over 30 lakh people all over the world who pursue this activity in their free time, in India we have around 15000 amateur radio operators.

Any individual above the age of 12 can become an Amateur Radio operator-no matter what age, gender or physical ability. Amateur Radio Operators have to qualify in an examination conducted by Ministry of Communications & IT, Government of India and obtain license for operating / possessing a Radio Station.

A wireless communication network through Amateur Radio is one of the most effective and alternate medium of communication and can play a significant role in providing reliable communications when other normal communications fail. The skills of the trained amateur radio operator can be used for public service in times of need and emergencies. In numerous occasions, under extreme circumstances, very efficient amateur radio communication and humanitarian assistance was provided by Hams particularly during Uttarkhand Floods 2012, Aila cyclone-2009, Krishna floods-2009, Indian Ocean Tunami-2004, Gujarat Earthquake-2001, Orissa Super Cyclone-1999 and many other natural / man-made calamities in the country.