Pokhara, 1 January | Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Jagdish Kharel, has stated that Nepal has firmly entered a phase of stability, prosperity, and good governance through the upcoming electoral process. Speaking at an interaction program titled ‘Evolving Concepts in Professionalizing Mass Communication’ organized by the Ministry in Pokhara on Sunday, Minister Kharel emphasized that the political climate is now fully charged for the elections. He noted that while newer political forces are forming strategic alliances, traditional parties have already mobilized their cadres for the polls. The Minister, who also serves as the government spokesperson, highlighted that the interim government led by Prime Minister Sushila Karki has conducted intensive dialogues with top political leaders and Gen-Z representatives to ensure a conducive environment for the House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 5 (Phagun 21).
Addressing the current state of the media, Minister Kharel acknowledged that the communication sector is undergoing a period of significant crisis and transition. He pointed out the irony of having nearly 15,000 media outlets in a struggling economy, where a single journalist often operates multiple news portals. He urged media houses to adopt innovative technology and create powerful, high-quality content to remain relevant. Furthermore, he termed ‘New Media’ as the ‘New Mainstream,’ stressing that traditional outlets can no longer ignore digital evolution. He announced that the government is working on regulations to officially recognize and register new media platforms. The event also featured insights from various high-ranking officials and journalists, who called for recognizing media as an industry and providing relief in utility costs to sustain the struggling profession.
