Airwaves over Arabian Sea: HamFest set to enthrall coast

Mangaluru,

In a world increasingly dependent on smartphones, high speed internet and instant messaging, there remains a vibrant community that continues to communicate through a medium that predates them all - radio waves. This November, that fascinating world will converge on the shores of the Arabian Sea as HamFest India 2026, the nation's premier amateur radio convention, arrives in Coastal Karnataka for the very first time. Hosted by the Mangalore Amateur Radio Club (MARC), National Institute of Technology Karnataka and MIT HAM Club, the two-day convention will be held on November 28 and 29 at the NITK campus in Surathkal.

The event is expected to attract hundreds of licensed amateur radio operators, communication enthusiasts, students, researchers and emergency communication volunteers from across India and abroad. For Mangaluru, the event represents far more than a gathering of radio enthusiasts. It is recognition of the region's long-standing contribution to amateur radio and emergency communications, built over decades through the efforts of MARC, one of India's oldest and most respected amateur radio organisations. Amateur radio, commonly known as HAM radio, is often as sociated with hobbyists making contacts across cities, countries and continents. Yet its importance extends well beyond recreation.

Throughout history, amateur radio operators have stepped in during natural disasters, cyclones, floods and earthquakes, providing critical communication links when conventional networks have failed. Their ability to establish independent communication systems has made them valuable partners in disaster preparedness and emergency response. HamFest India 2026 will show case the many dimensions of this unique field. The convention will feature technical presentations, workshops, equipment demonstrations, exhibitions, networking sessions and discussions on emerging communication technologies.

 Organisers are also placing special emphasis on encouraging students and young innovators to explore wireless communication, electronics and radio experimentation.  According to the Core Team of MARC, bringing the national convention to Coastal Karnataka marks a historic milestone for the region's amateur radio fraternity. "Hosting HamFest India 2026 is a landmark achievement for MARC and Coastal Karnataka. Amateur radio is a unique blend of technology, learning, experimentation and public service. We are excited to welcome operators from across India and abroad to Mangaluru and showcase our region's long standing contribution to amateur radio," they said.

They noted that the convention would provide younger generations with an opportunity to discover communication technologies beyond the digital platforms that dominate every day life. "Amateur radio encourages curiosity, problem-solving and hands-on learning. It introduces students to wireless communication, antenna design, electronics and emergency communication systems. Hosting HamFest at NITK will provide an excellent platform for students to interact with experienced operators and explore real-world applications of communication technology," the core team opined. The selection of NITK Surathkal as the venue adds further significance to the event.

The institute has a strong tradition of amateur radio activity and has consistently encouraged technical experimentation, innovation and practical learning through student-led initiatives and radio-related programmes. The campus setting is expected to create valuable interactions between experienced operators and aspiring engineers. For MARC, the convention is the culmination of nearly five decades of dedication to the amateur radio movement. Since its formation, the club has trained aspiring operators, conducted licensing support programmes, organised field exercises and participated in emergency communication initiatives. Its members have earned respect within the amateur radio community for combining technical expertise with a strong commitment to public service.

As preparations gain momentum, excitement is building across India's amateur radio fraternity. For two days, operators who normally connect through invisible radio waves spanning thousands of kilometres will gather face-to-face on the Karnataka coast to exchange knowledge, showcase innovations and strengthen friendships forged across the airwaves. When antennas rise above the NITK campus this November, they will symbolize far more than radio communication. They will represent a tradition of innovation, volunteerism, resilience and lifelong learning that has connected people across borders and generations. For Mangaluru, HamFest India 2026 will be an opportunity to celebrate that legacy while inspiring a new generation to discover the enduring magic of radio.