PSB must be of high quality and effective: Communications Minister Kharel

Kathmandu, Nov 9: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jagadish Kharel, has underscored the necessity for public service broadcasting to be of high quality, reliable, and effective.     

During the first anniversary celebration of Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) Nepal and the inauguration of Public Service Broadcasting and 'NTV World' held today at Singha Durbar, he remarked that the content delivered through PSB should have a significant impact.     

The Communications Minister stated, “The slogan of PSB must be 'justified.' The content it offers should embody innovation and creativity. PSB must guarantee easy access for the public." He pointed out that PSB commenced amidst numerous challenges and highlighted the importance of its sustainability and content diversity, noting that PSB should incorporate content that reflects the identity and pride of the nation from the viewpoints of both Nepalis residing abroad and foreigners.     

Minister Kharel stressed that mass media is encountering difficult circumstances not only in Nepal but also globally, and PSB should broadcast in a manner that enhances radio and TV audiences through a 'mobile digital platform'.     

“Television cannot simply be operated by placing it against the wall as it was done in the past. It is essential to adapt to the evolving times, technology, and equipment. Through all five channels of NTV, we must earn the trust of the public and boost 'likes' and viewership. We also need to remain competitive with the private sector,” he remarked.     

On the occasion, Minister Kharel expressed his belief that the government would facilitate the sustainability and commercialization of mass media by managing technology and human resources to achieve professionalism, noting that it has recently become increasingly challenging for mass media to survive and that various obstacles are arising.(RSS)