PATAN, MAY 22

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has said the government is always committed to the promotion and sustainability of independent community radio.

In his best wishes message on the occasion of the 28th anniversary of the Radio Sagarmatha, operated by the Nepal Forum of Environment Journalists (NEFEJ) today, the Prime Minister acknowledged 'a leading role' of the Radio Sagarmatha in the development of community transmission service.

"I am pleased to hear that Radio Sagarmatha FM 102.4 MHz, the first independent and community radio in the entire South Asia is observing its 28th anniversary today (Jeth 9). It has played a leading role in the development of community transmission service and has contributed to the information dissemination," the Prime Minister said in the statement.

In the message, he said the role of radio in the progress of political transformation, conflict management, peace establishment, building of an equitable society, establishment of social justice, promotion of democratic culture and the rule of law, advancement of sustainable development, environment conservation and the promotion of human rights and freedom of expression is commendable.

He hoped for a more effective role of radio to address challenges existing in the country.

Radio Sagarmatha observed the establishment day by organising various programmes today.