Kathmandu: President Ramchandra Paudel has emphasized the critical role of the media in fostering a conducive environment for the upcoming elections. He highlighted the media’s vital contribution to the success of the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026, which aims to bolster good governance, the constitution, and democracy.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the President made these remarks during the first anniversary celebration of Public Service Broadcasting Nepal and the inauguration of PSB NTV World. He underscored the importance of fulfilling the aspirations of young people to fortify democracy and ensure the elections’ success. The President urged the media not to waiver in its duty to inform citizens, thereby strengthening democracy and creating an environment beneficial to the populace.
President Paudel articulated the necessity for the media to work diligently to meet the young generation’s demand for good governance and development. He stressed that public service broadcasting should operate independently, free from government and commercial influences, serving the interests of citizens and the nation. He expressed confidence in the development of public service broadcasting as an autonomous entity that adheres to democratic values and journalistic ethics by providing accurate, impartial, and accountable information.
Expressing concern over the rise of misinformation and rumors, President Paudel emphasized that citizens have a fundamental right to truthful and reliable information. He asserted that it is the media’s duty and obligation to disseminate information grounded in truth and facts. The President acknowledged the transformative impact of the internet and information technology on media content and transmission, noting the emergence of social networks and citizen journalism. He reiterated the responsibility of the mass media to safeguard the public from misinformation risks in the current technological landscape.
The President inaugurated ‘NTV World’ at the event, which was attended by Minister of Communications and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel, Secretary of the Ministry Radhika Aryal, and other dignitaries. During the ceremony, PSB’s new logo and mobile app were also unveiled.
PSB Nepal, formed by integrating Nepal Television and Radio Nepal under a new legal framework, celebrated its first anniversary. Dr. Mahendra Bista, Chairman of PSB Nepal, stated that the broadcasting service is being transformed according to the ‘Citizen First’ concept.