I wish to congratulate community station Radio Tarana on entering its 15th year of broadcasting.
I am delighted that Tarana has reached this milestone as a leading Ethnic Radio.
I have been privileged to have close association with it throughout its journey and personally knowing both Managing Director Robert Khan and his father Robert Khan Sr for over thirty years.
The purpose of the Radio Station is clear and far-reaching.
It endeavours to entertain, educate, inform, preserve and develop culture and foster mutual understanding between the different originating groups in the Indian Community, using the universal language of music, news, views, information and mindful of the diverse interests, religious and ethnic origins of the audience to which we cater.
Although the Radio Tarana is a commercial venture, I commend it for its relentless promotion of the wider Indian culture, festivals and celebrations, and achievements of the people of South Asian and Middle Eastern origin, who have made New Zealand their home.
I trust Tarana, as a community radio station will continue to positively promote our culture, languages and values.
It is very important for the first generation migrants and future generations to maintain their identity, while integrating into the local customs and values.
I understand that Radio Tarana and Indian Newslink work closely together on highlighting and promoting our community, for which they both deserve accolades.
New Zealand is a wonderful place to live, and every sector of our society has an opportunity to play its part in making it a great place to live.
As a representative of the wider South Asian and ethnic communities in Parliament for nearly 8 years, I have been given this unique opportunity and trust by our people to serve them.
I look forward to continuous relationship with our community towards a productive and sound economy and a fair, just, equitable and harmonious New Zealand.
Once again, my best wishes to Radio Tarana, its management and staff, as I am sure listeners in New Zealand and worldwide would continue to enjoy learning more about our people and businesses and about our beautiful country, New Zealand.
Dr Ashraf Choudhary is Member of Parliament on Labour List and the Party’s Associate Spokesperson for Ethnic Affairs
