Ham radio
SNU and OSCAR India Empower Students with HAM Radio Skills and Space Communication
Our Web Correspondent
Sister Nivedita University (SNU), in collaboration with OSCAR INDIA, hosted a 3-day hands-on training workshop that immersed students in the world of Amateur Radio. From antenna building to transmitting images and voices without the internet, GSM, or cellular networks, students discovered how HAM Radio connects across the globe and even to the International Space Station. A highlight of the event was a live communication session with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla (VU2TNI) aboard the ISS. The workshop not only prepared participants for the ASOC Examination but also marked the announcement of SNU’s first Amateur Radio Club Station.
SNU & OSCAR India
In 2025, when mobile networks can fail, HAM Radio continues to prove its reliability and relevance. Beyond being a hobby, it is a powerful medium capable of transmitting voices and images—even to space. Through this initiative, SNU introduced students to an enduring technology that thrives even in the era of 6G, making them realize that HAM Radio is not a “lost frequency,” but communication at its most resilient.
SNU & OSCAR India
In this regard, the WPC Wing also came forward to encourage the students. Ms. Manimala (IRRS), Engineer at the Wireless Monitoring Organization, Ministry of Communications, shared her insights on HAM Radio and its scientific aspects. Her words, along with WPC’s commitment to promoting HAM Radio and encouraging youth, greatly fueled the enthusiasm of the participants throughout the workshop.
SNU & OSCAR India
Students were captivated by the demonstration of SSTV (Slow Scan Television), a lesser-known Amateur Radio capability. With OSCAR INDIA’s guidance, they learned how images can be transmitted entirely through radio waves without internet dependency. This session especially inspired Journalism and Mass Communication students, showing how anyone can communicate with the ISS using just a radio set and antenna.
SNU & OSCAR India
Over three days, the workshop covered core aspects of HAM Radio, from radio frequencies and antenna design to space communication and image transmission. Students gained hands-on experience, empowering them with both technical knowledge and practical skills.
SNU & OSCAR India
Professor Dr Minal Pareek, Dean of the Journalism and Mass Communication Department, emphasised that Amateur Radio is not only about communication but also about adopting cutting-edge technology, and said, “Amateur radio is not only a medium of communication, it’s a cutting-edge technology that students must learned”. She announced the establishment of an Amateur Radio Club Station at SNU, where students can practice and innovate regularly.
SNU & OSCAR India
Professor Jhumur Dutta Gupta’s active involvement and guidance played a key role in the workshop’s success. Her mentorship created a positive learning atmosphere, encouraging students to experiment and engage deeply with the technology.
SNU & OSCAR India
Nilkantha Chatterjee, Convener and Founder of OSCAR INDIA, remarked: “Amateur Radio is a hobby that connects people not just across the world, but beyond it. Recently, a Bengaluru- based audience successfully communicated via ham radio with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla (VU2TNI) while he was aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This remarkable space-to-earth transmission using amateur radio frequencies once again proved the continued relevance of ham radio in both scientific and humanitarian efforts. This hobby gives you the opportunity to communicate with astronauts. HAM Radio is not a lost frequency; it is something innovative and unique — beyond imagination. And OSCAR INDIA is here to guide you so you can be a ham, not just a licensed operator.”
SNU & OSCAR India
Additionally, under the guidance of Nilkantha Chatterjee, students successfully established communication with VU3IZV, Pritam Sarkar, a licensed Ham Radio Operator, experiencing both VHF and HF communications first-hand.
SNU & OSCAR India
They learned antenna building and functionality with Mr Tanumoy Chakraborty, VU2XFD, an experienced amateur radio operator, strengthening their skills with direct hands-on mentoring from experts.
SNU & OSCAR India
The workshop culminated in preparing students for the ASOC Examination, the pathway to becoming licensed HAM operators. With their newfound skills, students are now ready to join the global community of Amateur Radio enthusiasts, carrying forward a legacy of innovation, connectivity, and exploration.
SNU & OSCAR India
Last updated on 20 Aug 2025