BANEPA: A two-day interaction programme on 'national communications policy and implementation' discussed the model of the mass communications policy and the Ministry of Information and Mass Communications in a federal setup.

Speakers at the programme spoke of the need for bringing an effective mass communication policy so as to make media more accountable and responsible.

Secretary at the Ministry of Information and Communications Mahendra Man Gurung stressed the need for ending a syndicate system which according to him is in practice in Nepali media.

He suggested that Nepali media should increase quality in their services. He expressed his view for implementing the National Mass Communications Policy without hurting the spirit of the concept of full press freedom and freedom of expression.

Administrative Court chair and media expert Kashiraj Dahal demanded for responsible and disciplinary role of mass media to strengthen democracy and to respect the citizen's right to information. He also suggested that any media law contravening the federal law should be avoided.

Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Information and Communications Prem Kumar Shrestha underlined the need for fresh acts and laws for subordinate bodies under the Ministry in a new federal structure.

Press Council Nepal's Chair Bhawani Baral said the mass communications policy should address the country's economic, political and social features, claiming, however, that newspapers' distribution audit system was conventional.

He suggested bringing audit in distribution system down to 55 points and increasing its quality and implementing code of conduct.

Likewise, Chairman of the Nepal Television Mahesh Raj Dahal stressed the need for amending the communications policy in the changing context of the country.

On the occasion, speakers including Rastriya Samachar Samiti General Manager Opendra Sharma, communication expert Tikaram Rai and Press Council member Ishwori Ojha also expressed their views on an amendment to the communications policy.

The event organised by the Ministry and National Mass Communications Policy Implementation High-Level Suggestion Committee kicked off in Dhulikhel on Wednesday and will conclude today.