Kathmandu: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Dr. Bikram Timilsina, has stated that the government is prepared to undertake structural reforms in Nepal’s media sector and has called on the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) and other relevant stakeholders to come forward with a clear and comprehensive reform plan for discussion.
Addressing the inaugural session of the Federation of Nepali Journalists’ National Conference on Sunday, Minister Timilsina said the government is committed to providing every possible support to make Nepal’s media more responsible and professional. At the same time, he urged journalists to uphold their professional responsibilities while reporting news.
“If the objective is to reform Nepal’s media without any political agenda, structural reforms can be achieved within two years. However, institutions such as the Federation must first undertake the necessary groundwork, and the government will fully support those efforts,” he said.
The Minister further clarified that the government has no policy of restricting the flow of information. Instead, he emphasized the need to identify existing challenges and work toward practical solutions.
Highlighting the importance of a strong media sector, Minister Timilsina said that journalists and media professionals cannot thrive unless media institutions themselves are strengthened. He noted that the government is working to create an environment that enhances the sustainability and capacity of media organizations.
Referring to the disclosure of government decisions, he stated that certain sensitive information may be kept confidential when doing so serves the national interest and the welfare of the public. He added that the Constitution clearly defines which information should be made public and which may remain confidential.