Kathmandu, March 20

Minister for Information and Communications Surendra Kumar Karki today insisted that media should play a meaningful role in fostering the common feeling and mentality of nation building among Nepalis.

While inaugurating the convention of Federation of Nepali Journalists, Nepal Television Associate branch here today, he said, “The feeling and pride of being a Nepali is dominated by political interests and identity, and this has pushed the nation backward.”  People in Republic Nepal expect the government to continue efforts to make their wishes true and the role of media is equally pivotal for this, he said, adding that media could contribute to the nation by raising positive issues and issues of the people rather than negative issues and political affairs.

The information and communications minister further said he had already directed media houses to implement the provision of minimum wages for working journalists. The government will recognise the media as an industry if they abide by this provision.

On the occasion, FNJ Central President Mahendra Bista said though the FNJ continued to advocate the issues of working journalists, they were yet to be fully addressed. NTV Chair Mahesh Dahal, General Manager Sachin Roka and Minimum Wages Fixation Committee Chair Poshan KC wished success for the convention, which will end after electing a new leadership for the branch.