Date: March 29, 2026

The Federation of Nepali Journalists, a common organization of Nepali journalists, has entered its 71st year of establishment on Chaitra 16, 2082. On this occasion, I express my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all Nepali media personnel and advocates of press and freedom of expression, including members of the Federation spread across the country and in various parts of the world.

In addition, I express my high respect to the elders who have provided leadership in various periods since its establishment until today. I express my tribute to the martyred journalists who were martyred in the course of the fight for press and freedom of expression and in the course of their duties. The Federation Central Committee expresses its gratitude for the contribution of our elders and the glorious history of the Federation.

The Federation, established in society as the oldest leading civic organization in the country with a history of seven decades, has been dedicating itself to the protection of press and freedom of expression and the welfare of working journalists. It has been carrying out its work by prioritizing the issue of establishing strong democracy and the rule of law through professional and accountable journalism. The Federation has also been playing an important role in matters of public concern, including the protection of human rights and the right of citizens to accurate information.

In recent times, with the development of information technology, the use of social media has also increased the flow of false information. Due to which, readers are having difficulty distinguishing between media content and the opinions expressed by individuals through social media. Amidst such challenges, we have the responsibility to raise the dignity of the Federation and take the pride of history to new heights by conducting responsible journalism. Journalists and journalism are inextricably linked to democracy. Therefore, in some cases, we have to express our opinions on matters of public concern beyond our professional responsibilities.

After the recently concluded House of Representatives elections, a government with a two-thirds majority has been formed. The Federation is confident that this will end the long-standing political instability. In addition, the Federation urges the government to bring forward the long-delayed media-related laws and necessary laws after discussing them with stakeholders, including the Federation. Similarly, it is necessary to increase morale by providing compensation to media houses and journalists who were injured in accidents during the Genji movement, as per the details collected by the Federation.

We are working to further strengthen our relations with national and international organizations and bodies working in the mass media sector for the physical and professional safety of journalists.

It is our duty to oppose any attempt by any organ or level of the state to curtail or control the freedom of the press and expression guaranteed by the constitution in any name. Even after a decade since the implementation of the democratic constitution, the incidents of violation of press freedom have been increasing recently, but the Federation is always committed to the freedom of the press and expression and the physical safety of journalists. The Federation is taking initiatives to include all media outlets and working journalists in the Social Security Fund.

Finally, on the occasion of the Foundation Day of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, I extend my warmest wishes to everyone and say that it is our responsibility to practice responsible journalism. I appeal to everyone to ensure the right of the people to accurate information and to play the role expected by society.

Nirmala Sharma

President