1. Introduction

Every government job does not offer a high salary or permanent status-but some offer credibility, access, and long-term professional value. The Akashvani (All India Radio) Part Time Correspondent recruitment falls squarely in this category.

For aspirants who believe in grassroots journalism, local reporting, and public-interest news, this role is more than a part-time assignment. It is an entry point into India’s oldest and most trusted public broadcasting system. This opportunity particularly benefits journalists who want official recognition, steady field exposure, and a disciplined reporting environment-without the pressure cooker culture of private media houses.

This recruitment is not for everyone. But for the right candidate, it can quietly shape an entire career.

2. Key Details (Verified from Official Source)

ParticularsDetails
OrganisationAkashvani (All India Radio), Chennai
Post NamePart Time Correspondent (PTC)
Number of Posts02
Advertisement No.16/RNU/AIR/CHENNAI/PTCs/2025
Job TypeContractual / Retainership
Monthly RemunerationApprox. ₹9,250 (inclusive of conveyance & phone)
Age Limit24 to 50 years
Application ModeOffline
Last Date31 January 2026
Official Websitenewsonair.gov.in

3. Post-Wise Eligibility - What It Actually Means

Educational Qualification (Beyond the Line in Notification)

  • A PG Diploma or Degree in Journalism / Mass Media means formal training in news writing, reporting ethics, and media laws.
  • Alternatively, a graduate with 2 years of journalistic experience is acceptable-but experience must be real, verifiable, and relevant. Freelance reporting, local newspapers, digital portals, or stringer work counts if properly documented.

This role clearly favours practicing journalists, not freshers testing the waters.

Residency Requirement - Non-Negotiable

You must:

  • Live at the district headquarters OR
  • Within 10 km radius of the district HQ/municipal limits

This condition exists because PTCs are expected to respond quickly to local developments. Candidates often ignore this and get rejected later-do not make that mistake.

Skills That Matter in Reality

  • Basic computer and word processing knowledge is essential.
  • You must own or have access to news gathering tools (smartphone, recorder, internet).
  • Experience with electronic media is desirable-not mandatory, but it significantly strengthens your profile.

4. How to Apply - Step-by-Step (With Pitfalls to Avoid)

  1. Download the official notification and application format from the Akashvani/Prasar Bharati website.

  2. Fill the application carefully-handwritten mistakes, overwriting, or missing fields reflect poorly.

  3. Attach:

    • Self-attested copies of educational certificates
    • Proof of journalistic experience
    • Proof of residence
    • One recent passport-size photograph

  4. Send the application by post or submit in person to: Head of Office, Akashvani (AIR), Kamarajar Salai, Chennai - 600004

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Sending incomplete experience proof
  • Ignoring residency criteria
  • Missing the deadline assuming postal delay will be considered (it usually is not)

5. Salary, Growth & Career Outlook

Let’s be honest-the pay is modest. ₹9,250 per month will not support a family in a metro city.

However, what you gain instead:

  • Official association with Prasar Bharati
  • On-ground reporting experience with national relevance
  • Long-term contract possibilities (renewable yearly up to age 60 based on performance)
  • Credibility that helps in future roles with government media units, DD News, PIB panels, or even private media

This role suits those who already have a parallel income stream or are building long-term journalistic credibility.

6. Preparation Plan & Interview Strategy

What the Interview Panel Actually Tests

  • Knowledge of your district and state
  • Awareness of current affairs and central welfare schemes
  • Familiarity with radio news format
  • Writing clarity and journalistic judgement
  • Comfort with modern communication tools

A Practical 30-Day Prep Plan

  • Daily (1 hour): Read AIR news bulletins + PIB releases
  • Alternate days: Practice writing 2-3 short radio news scripts
  • Weekly: Review major district-level developments and governance issues
  • Before interview: Be ready with 2 real reporting examples from your past work

Do not over-prepare theory. This interview rewards practical awareness.

7. Pros & Cons - A Balanced View

Pros

  • Entry into public broadcasting
  • Professional legitimacy
  • Flexible work structure
  • Long-term engagement possibility

Cons

  • Low remuneration
  • No permanent status
  • High responsibility despite part-time tag
  • Limited vacancies (only 2 posts)

If your priority is salary-this is not for you. If your priority is journalistic grounding and credibility-it is worth serious consideration.

8. Applicant Checklist

Before applying, confirm:

  • You meet age and residency criteria
  • Experience certificates are valid and relevant
  • Documents are self-attested
  • Application reaches before 31 January 2026
  • You are not a government employee or political party member (automatic disqualification)

9. Conclusion

The Akashvani Part Time Correspondent role is a quiet opportunity-no hype, no glamour, but deep professional value. It suits disciplined, ethical journalists who care about public service broadcasting and are willing to grow patiently.

Apply with clarity, not desperation. If selected, treat this role as a responsibility-not just a job.

10. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is this a permanent government job? No. It is a contractual retainership role, renewable based on performance.

Q2. Can fresh journalism graduates apply? Only if they meet the qualification criteria. Practical experience is strongly preferred.

Q3. Is private media experience accepted? Yes, if it is genuine, relevant, and documented.

Q4. What happens after selection? Initial performance is reviewed for three months, followed by monthly or yearly renewals.

Q5. Where to verify updates or clarifications? Always refer to the official Akashvani/Prasar Bharati website or contact the AIR Chennai office directly.