KATHMANDU, April 27: President Ramchandra Paudel has called on the journalism sector to challenge the prevailing narrative that "nothing is happening" in the country and instead promote a more positive outlook by highlighting ongoing progress.
Speaking at the 16th Nagarik Nayak felicitation ceremony organized by Nepal Republic Media in the capital on Saturday, President Paudel said that the role of journalism is not merely to claim that nothing is happening. “It is equally important to show that positive developments are underway. Journalism should offer examples that inspire action. I am pleased that this program has focused in that direction,” he said.
A Celebration of Good Deeds
President Paudel warned that an overemphasis on seeking praise, fueled by the rise of populism, risks obscuring the truth. “At present, populism is on the rise. If the tendency to seek only praise continues, the truth will remain hidden. A vigilant press must always disseminate accurate and truthful information, which in turn nurtures citizens' critical awareness essential for democracy,” he said.
Recalling former Prime Minister B.P. Koirala's encouragement to journalists to publish newspapers and hold the government accountable, President Paudel underscored the deep interconnection between democracy and a free press. He emphasized that the contribution of the media sector to Nepal’s democratic movements cannot be overstated, noting that many Nepali journalists have risked their lives and livelihoods in the pursuit of democracy.
President Paudel further remarked that just as independent, impartial journalism cannot thrive without democracy, democracy itself cannot be sustained without a free press. Highlighting the transformation in the field of communication and information dissemination, he noted that the growth of technology has introduced numerous social media platforms and broadcast channels, thereby strengthening the role of citizen journalism.
President Paudel also cautioned that responsible media must also guard against the misuse of technology, which can spread misinformation, falsehoods, and suspicion, misleading the public. During the event, conservation activist Nanda Devi Kunwar, educationist Ghanshyam Pathak and U-19 Women Cricket Team Captain Puja Mahato were felicitated with the Nagarik Nayak awards.
