For National Interest
MINISTER for Information and Communications, and General Administration Ramesh Nath Pandey
said that Nepalese journalism needs to be directed towards protecting and promoting
national interests and enhancing the image of the country. Addressing a function,
organised to launch a women's magazine, in Kathmandu the other day, Minister Pandey
rightly observed that the Nepalese media has entered the modern age by passing through a
very long and critical journey in the past. It is true that Nepalese media has made much
progress both in terms of quantity and quality over the last decade especially after the
restoration of democracy and it is in no way inferior to South Asian standard. Nepalese
press, now, is vibrant and professional and has been effectively and efficiently informing
the people. As independent and responsible press is the hallmark of democracy, the
professional development of the Nepalese media is ample evidence that our democracy is
getting mature and institutionalised. However, much still needs to be done in order to
cope with the fast changes taking place in the field of information technology. Nepalese
media, thus, needs to take maximum advantage from the revolutionary changes and progress
in the field of information and communication technology in the world.
His Majesty's Government has also taken a number of measures
in terms of policy as well as programmes to create a conducive environment for the
independent and professional development of the media. The Constitution of the Kingdom of
Nepal -1990 has fully protected the freedom of expression. As a result, Nepalese press has
enjoyed total freedom and professional independence. Along with these rights, the press
has also certain responsibilities towards the nation and the people. Press is called the
Fourth Estate of the country. It is the watchdog of the government's activities and a
bridge between the people and the government. The objective of the press is not only to
inform and educate the people but also to mould public opinion on certain crucial national
issues. The vibrant and professional media always works for the larger interest of the
nation and keeps national interest above all other issues and agenda. Press should not be
divided on certain issues that have far reaching impact on national interest. As said by
Minister Pandey, it is the press that should lead and guide the society and the people in
protecting and promoting the national interest. For this, press itself should rise above
petty partisan interest and concentrate all efforts for the nation and the people. Therein
lies the professional development of the Nepalese media.
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