Celebrating 25 Years of JK Bank Diary: A Milestone in Broadcasting

Leh, India Aug 23, 2026 ALN: On Sunday, 26th August 2001, at around 7:45 pm, the airwaves of Radio Kashmir resonated with a new sound as the signature tune of "Radio Kashmir Pesh Hai – JK Bank Diary" went on air for the first time. At that moment, no one could have predicted that this modest 15-minute program would endure for 25 years without a single interruption. This Sunday, JK Bank Diary proudly celebrates its Silver Jubilee, marking a remarkable milestone in the world of broadcasting.

Over the past quarter-century, the program has produced more than 1300 episodes, accumulating over 325 hours of broadcast content. Its reach has extended across eight stations of Radio Kashmir, including Srinagar, Jammu, Leh, Kargil, Poonch, Rajouri, Bhaderwah, and Kathua. Such extensive coverage has made JK Bank Diary a staple in the lives of many listeners, solidifying its place in the region's cultural fabric.

In the annals of All India Radio, no commercial sponsored program of 15 minutes per week has ever enjoyed such an uninterrupted run while generating revenue. This achievement is likely a national broadcasting record, underscoring the significance of the program not just for the J&K Bank, but for the entire broadcasting landscape in India.

Love at First Hear: The Birth of an Idea
Reflecting on the origins of this groundbreaking initiative, the idea for JK Bank Diary was conceived during a chance encounter on 23rd June 2000. While waiting for a flight from Bangalore to Srinagar, the vision for the program emerged in a conversation with Mr. M.Y. Khan, the then Chairman of J&K Bank. During the flight, discussions centered on how Radio Kashmir could play a pivotal role in addressing the economic challenges faced by local farmers and artisans. Mr. Khan's willingness to listen and engage led to an invitation to his office for a deeper discussion, setting the stage for what would become a transformative program.

A week later, in Mr. Khan's office at ZamZam House, the concept of JK Bank Diary was solidified. It was here that the tagline "JAMMU & KASHMIR BANK – BADHIYA, BE-NAZEER BANK" was born, encapsulating the essence of the bank's commitment to its community. This tagline would go on to represent not just the bank, but also the spirit of the program itself.

The Launch at Tagore Hall
After a year of meticulous planning and collaboration with colleagues, the program was officially launched on 24th August 2001 at Tagore Hall in Srinagar. The event was graced by the presence of then Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah, who lauded the initiative as “the best use of Radio.” His endorsement lent credibility to the program and set high expectations for its potential impact. The following day, the first episode aired, marking a significant turning point in Indian commercial broadcasting, particularly in the context of regional programming.

A Team Effort
The sustained success of JK Bank Diary can be attributed to the unwavering dedication of a talented team at Radio Kashmir. Key figures such as G.N. Rattanpuri, Late Bashir Shah, Late Ashraf Bhat, and numerous others played vital roles in bringing the program to life. Their commitment ensured that the program continued to air consistently, even amidst various challenges, including natural disasters like floods and earthquakes, as well as the unprecedented disruptions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The resilience of the team has been a cornerstone of the program's longevity.

The Impact of 15 Minutes
JK Bank Diary's format is simple yet profoundly impactful. Each episode typically includes an opening note, detailed explanations of bank schemes in local languages, listener letters, and inspiring success stories from the community. This approach has demystified banking for the local population, promoting financial literacy long before it became a national agenda. The program has empowered listeners from diverse backgrounds, including farmers and artisans, by providing them with valuable insights into financial products and services. As a result, many individuals have gained increased awareness and confidence in managing their financial affairs.

Whose Jubilee Is It?
This Silver Jubilee is not merely a personal achievement; it is a celebration of the collective journey shared by the listeners of Radio Kashmir, the clients of J&K Bank, and the entire bank family. The stories of growth and success that have emerged from the program stand as a testament to its profound impact on the community. As we commemorate this significant milestone, it is crucial to recognize the importance of archiving the 1300 scripts produced over the years. These scripts represent not only the economic history of Jammu and Kashmir but also the voices and narratives of its people.

JK Bank Diary has transcended the boundaries of a conventional program; it has become a lasting relationship between a bank and its community, broadcast weekly for 25 years. This enduring connection has fostered a sense of trust and loyalty among listeners, further solidifying the bank's role as a vital participant in the region's development.

As we reflect on this remarkable journey, it is essential to acknowledge the contributions of all those involved in making JK Bank Diary a success. From the dedicated team at Radio Kashmir to the listeners who have engaged with the program, each has played a part in shaping its legacy. The program's ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing media landscape serves as an inspiration for future initiatives aimed at community engagement and empowerment.

In conclusion, the celebration of JK Bank Diary's Silver Jubilee is not just a mark of time but a recognition of the positive change it has fostered within the community. It stands as a beacon of hope and progress, encouraging continued dialogue and collaboration between financial institutions and the communities they serve. Thank you to all the listeners and the J&K Bank family for making this journey possible, and here’s to many more years of impactful broadcasting ahead.