Kathmandu: Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Damodar Bhandari has announced that the government will assume the role of a guardian in safeguarding copyrights. Speaking at a programme organized to commemorate World Intellectual Property Day 2025, Bhandari emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting the intellectual creations of Nepali artists.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the event was a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Department of Industry, Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, and the Office of the Copyrights Registration. During his speech, Minister Bhandari highlighted the necessity for policy reforms aimed at protecting and promoting intellectual property as well as original art and culture in Nepal.
The minister assured that stringent actions will be taken against those who engage in intellectual theft, unlawfully using the creations of Nepali creators for their own benefit. He also called for a comprehensive public awareness campaign to foster understanding and cooperation in preserving Nepal’s unique cultural heritage.
Chandra Prasad Dhakal, Chairperson of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), supported the minister’s views, emphasizing the need for the government to enhance its role by encouraging the registration of intellectual property. He also urged relevant authorities to streamline the process for filing and addressing complaints related to trademarks and patents.
World Intellectual Property Day has been observed by the World Intellectual Property Organization since 2001, with this year’s theme being ‘Intellectual Property and Music: Feel the Beat of IP’.