Vinod Pavarala is Professor of Communication and Dean, Sarojini Naidu School of Communication, Hyderabad. After completing a dual Masters in Communication & Journalism and Sociology, he obtained his PhD from the University of Pittsburgh, USA. For over five years he has been one of the leading campaigners for a national policy on community radio in India and has played a significant role in the drafting of the policy approved by the Union Cabinet in late 2006, permitting community-based organizations to start their own radio stations. In February, 2012 he was chosen to be the first ever UNESCO Chair on Community Media. The Chair operates as a liaison among the communities, media activists, academia and policymakers while, simultaneously undertaking research and documentation of best practices in the country and capacity sharing with the community members.