The Nepal Federation of Journalists now has nearly 2,500 members, mostly working journalists and broadcasters. Until recently, the state controlled all radio and television stations. Private producers could buy air time and broadcast entertainment programs, but were not allowed to air news or political views. However, those strict rules were eased slightly recently with the licensing of Radio Sagarmatha, the country's first independent community radio station. The station broadcasts a two-hour daily mix of music and spoken word, with its signal reaching the most densely populated area of Nepal.
Programming covers economic and social issues as well as environmental and development topics.
Radio Sagarmatha also focuses on issues facing women and children, the poor and minorities, as well as health and cultural concerns. The station is preparing to extend radio to rural areas, and hopes to start two additional stations in other parts of Nepal within a year. The Canadian Committee to Protect Journalists.