President Ramchandra Paudel has highlighted the crucial role of the media in creating a favorable environment for the upcoming House of Representatives election scheduled for Falgun 21 (March 5, 2026). He stated that the media’s contribution is vital to strengthening good governance, the constitution, and democracy.
Speaking at the first anniversary of Public Service Broadcasting Nepal (PSB Nepal) and the launch ceremony of NTV World, President Paudel emphasized the importance of fulfilling the aspirations of the youth for stronger democracy and good governance by ensuring the success of the upcoming elections.
He said the media must not deviate from its duty to keep citizens well-informed, as this is essential for strengthening democracy and ensuring that its benefits reach the people. “Considering the young generation’s aspiration for good governance and development, the media should work more effectively to make the upcoming election a success and to further advance democracy and the constitution,” he said. “Public service broadcasting is not a government or commercial media outlet—it is a citizens’ institution that must work independently in the national interest, free from government interference and commercial pressure.”
President Paudel noted that public broadcasting institutions have evolved as independent and autonomous entities. He expressed confidence that they would uphold the globally accepted principles of democracy, professional independence, impartiality, and accountability to the public.
He further stated that access to truthful, factual, and reliable information is a fundamental right of citizens, while providing such information is the duty and responsibility of the media. Expressing concern over the growing trend of misinformation, fake news, and rumors in recent times, he urged the media to remain vigilant and uphold truth and integrity.
Acknowledging the significant impact of the internet and information technology on news production and communication, the President said that the rise of social media and citizen journalism has reshaped the media landscape. However, he warned that the misuse of technology poses risks of misleading the public and emphasized that it is the collective responsibility of the media to prevent such harm.
The event was also attended by Minister for Communication and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel, Secretary Radhika Aryal, and other officials. During the ceremony, President Paudel officially launched NTV World, unveiled PSB Nepal’s new logo, and introduced its mobile application.
The anniversary marks one year since Nepal Television and Radio Nepal were integrated and transformed into PSB Nepal under the new law. PSB Nepal Chairperson Mahendra Bista said the organization has been restructuring its broadcasting services under the concept of “Citizens First.”
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