KATHMANDU: The Federation of Nepali Journalists demanded that the government immediately implement the minimum wage for journalists recommended by the Minimum Wage Fixation Committee.

As per the revision made by the MWFC in July this year, journalists associated with media houses (‘A’ Class newspapers, all television stations, FM radios with capacity of above 500 Watt, all government-owned media, radio networks and FMs with more than one station) where the Working Journalists Act, 1993 is effective, will be entitled to a minimum monthly salary of Rs 19,500. Similarly, Rs 14,000 has been fixed as minimum monthly salary of employees/workers of such media house.

Similarly, Rs 14,100 and Rs 12,000 have been prescribed for working journalists and employees/workers associated with other media houses respectively.

Submitting an 18-point memorandum to the Minister for Information and Communication Technology Sher Dhan Rai today, a FNJ delegation led by President Mahendra Bista also demanded that the Ministry take an initiative to manage various facilities for journalists as provisioned by the Working Journalists Act.

READ ALSO:

• Revision of mass media policy on anvil

The mediapersons demanded that the government ensure their appointment letters, minimum wage, regular holidays, regular pay review and insurance, among others.

The umbrella body of Nepali journalists has reminded the Minister that the Development Committee and the Labour Committee of the Parliament have already directed the government to implement the Act.

Other demands of the FNJ include establishment of National Mass Communication Training Academy, revision on roles and responsibilities and reconstruction of Press Council Nepal and establishment of National Media Commission and Media Museum, health facilities for journalists among others.