New Executive Committee Formed for IPI Nepal Chapter, Committed to Defending Media Freedom

Kathmandu, December 19: The Nepal chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI) has announced the formation of its new executive committee in a unanimous decision during a recent meeting of the Nepal National Committee. IPI, a global network uniting editor, media executives, and prominent journalists, is dedicated to upholding the principles of quality and independent journalism worldwide.

The newly elected 9-member executive committee, led by Tara Nath Dahal, Editor-In-Chief of the Independent News Service (INS), reflects a diverse group of professionals committed to safeguarding media freedom and supporting independent journalism in Nepal.

Babita Basnet, a senior journalist and current editor of Ghatana Ra Bichar weekly, assumes the position of Vice President, while Siromani Dhungana, Founding Editor of Nepal Live Today, takes on the role of General Secretary for the chapter. The committee further includes Narayan Prasad Ghimire, Senior Editor of the National News Agency (RSS), as Secretary, and Ramesh Kumar Neupane, News Chief at Himal Khabar Patrika, as Treasurer.

The executive committee is strengthened by the inclusion of four esteemed members: Brija Kumar Yadav, Editor of Janakpur Today; Kuber Chalise, Editor-In-Chief of Clickmandu; Krishna Prasad Sapkota, Senior Editor at the National News Agency; and Mahabir Paudyal, Associate Editor of Nepal Live Today.

In light of the unprecedented challenges facing the media sector, including the surge of misinformation and disinformation, as well as governmental attempts to curtail freedom of expression, Tara Nath Dahal, the committee’s chair, emphasized the commitment of the IPI Nepal chapter to remain vigilant and proactive. “IPI Nepal chapter will engage among diverse journalistic communities in line with IPI’s principles and values,” stated Dahal, highlighting the chapter’s dedication to upholding professionalism and the freedom of expression amidst evolving challenges. The committee aims to collaborate with various journalistic communities to promote and defend media freedom, staying true to the core principles and values of the International Press Institute.