KATHMANDU, Aug 22: The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, in an attempt to engage with the people far and wide, has directed its subordinate bodies to make the utmost use of social media.

Yogesh Bhattarai, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, has directed the ministry, departments and different offices under the ministry to actively use social media and networking sites.

In a meeting on Wednesday, he asked subordinate officials to make sure that they respect the public's right to information, and proactively disseminate information in order to promote the country's tourism sector.

He has asked the ministry's subordinate bodies to use website, Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites even after office hours to make relevant announcements.

"It is an attempt to increase interaction with the citizens," said Ghanshyam Upadhyaya, spokesperson at the ministry. "The people can directly provide feedback on our activities, following which we can improve and correct ourselves.”

According to the minister's direction, the departments and different offices under the ministry need to create groups on social networks and use them proactively. All the bodies under the ministry are required to have a YouTube account and share their activities through videos.

"Staffers to look after the flow of information should be appointed right away if there is any vacant position," the minister said.

Offices under the ministry were also directed to take action and deactivate or block fake accounts, if any, under their names. The ministry and its bodies should promote Visit Nepal Year (VNY) 2020 through their promotional materials and social networks and websites, the minister directed.

The minister asked the bodies to submit their progress reports after a month, adding that the ministry will monitor it regularly.

 
• tourism_ministry
 
• subordinate_bodies
 
• social_media