KATHMANDU, APRIL 11

Bal Krishna Basnet, Chairperson of Press Council of Nepal, has been honored for his dedicated advocacy on environmental issues, particularly concerning the Himalayan region.

The ceremony, held in Kathmandu, highlighted Basnet's significant contributions to journalism,particularly in highlighting the critical issues of climate change and its impact on the Himalayan region.

The Literary Journalists' Association also awarded Basnet the title of 'Himadamaru,' recognizing his unwavering efforts to use the media to spread awareness of environmental issues.

In his address, Basnet urged the media fraternity to prioritize reporting on Himalayan and environmental concerns, emphasizing the critical role of journalism in raising awareness and fostering action on these pressing issues. He also underscored the connection between environmental preservation and human survival, stressing that efforts to safeguard the earth are paramount. He emphasized the importance of shifting focus from mere infrastructural development to the conservation of Nepal's rich heritage, language, culture, and natural resources.

During the program, Everesteer Temba Sherpa shared personal anecdotes of collaborating with Basnet over the years, highlighting Basnet's unwavering dedication to studying the effects of climate change in the Himalayan region.

In his remarks, artist Rochak Ghimire commended Basnet's ascent to leadership within the Press Council, emphasizing the significance of investigative journalists assuming influential positions to drive positive change.

The association President Radheshyam Lekali emphasized the vital role of journalism in national development, urging for greater attention to be paid to journalistic endeavors encompassing language, literature, and cultural heritage.

The event brought together personalities from various fields, including senior artists Madan Das Shrestha and writers Pramod Pradhan, Shree Om Shrestha, Thakur Belbase, Narendra Shrestha, and Bimal Bhaukaji.