Kathmandu: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, has announced that the government will take steps to link journalists with the contribution-based social security fund (SSF). This statement was made during a dialogue on journalists’ affiliation with SSF, organized by the Federation of Nepali Journalists in collaboration with SSF.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Gurung emphasized that the SSF scheme would be expanded to include subordinates of the ministry and media sectors. He noted that major media houses are already joining the SSF scheme, and eventually, employees in all media houses will be included. The government had already mentioned this initiative in its policies and programs. Minister Gurung highlighted the need for positive understanding and initiatives to ensure financial security and access to quality health services for workers.
Furthermore, Minister Gurung disclosed that a bill on mass communication is being drafted to address various media issues. The bill will cover topics such as the establishment of a mass media authority and a training academy. He also mentioned that the Media Council Bill is in the process of becoming law, and the government plans to introduce legislation to regulate social networking sites.