Lack of a quality education, poverty, child labor, begging and trafficking are some of the dire issues faced by children in India. Children especially experience India’s hardships, and exposure to the gospel is very limited. A program for children addressing these issues can go a long way in bringing hope and purpose to their lives.
Based on the response TWR received from its children’s program now aired in the Malayalam language, TWR decided to produce a similar broadcast in Hindi for children living in north India. Bal Samay, the 15- minute weekly radio program produced by TWR-India, began airing in 2006. Narrated Bible stories, current events, trivia, character sketches on famous personalities, poems and health tips are combined to make this an attractive program for children. In addition, many listeners send in their testimonies, and free promotions are offered on air. TWR-India follows up with the children who tune in, and also has a project underway to raise support to purchase radios for distribution to families who cannot afford them. This way, more children can hear the Bal Samay programs.
TWR-India feels it is imperative that Indian adults know the worth of a child in the eyes of God. They need to know the love and truth of the Lord Jesus as well. The gospel can transform their lives and give them hope. In the north, most parents are illiterate, especially those in rural areas, so children who listen to Bal Samay can also use the program to reach out to their parents. Already, children have come to know Christ because of the program, as these letters demonstrate:
- “I am fond of listening to your lovely program Bal Samay. I study in the 9th grade. Through this program, I have received many blessings for my personal life. The stories and songs are impressive. I learned that Jesus Christ is the true and living God. Please send me a book with stories from the Bible.”
- “I enjoy listening to Bal Samay. The stories and songs broadcast through your program are very meaningful to me. I came to know the Lord through your broadcast. Kindly pray for my spiritual growth.”
- “I am fond of listening to your program Bal Samay. I love to listen to new stories. I believe it is not only good for the children, but for all age groups. Without fail, I listen to your broadcast. Please send me books of some good biblical stories. Kindly also send me a few copies of the program schedule as I want to give them to my friends.”