RT:
The first public TV channel for Muslims, broadcasting 24/7 in the Russian language, has been launched in the country. The challenge is to raise awareness and understanding of Islamic religious traditions and Muslim culture.
The opening of the channel in eight Russian regions coincides with the major religious holiday celebration of Uraza Bayram, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The programs are broadcast in Russia’s North Caucasus, and the Republics of Bashkortostan and Tatarstan.
“Al RTV is not state-funded, it’s an answer to hopes and needs of the believers, our country’s Muslims,” Deputy Chairman of the Russian Muslim’s Religious Directorate for European Regions, Damir Mukhetdinov told Voice of Russia radio. The channel will be funded primarily with support of the private sector.