30 Years Strong: Himalaya Times Steps into Its 31st Year

Himalaya Times National Daily entered Nepali journalism 30 years ago. After weathering countless highs and lows, we step into our 31st year today—stronger, wiser, and more confident than ever. The struggles of the past have shaped our resolve for the future. No matter the obstacles ahead, our commitment, courage, and perseverance remain unchanged.

Nepali journalism has survived immense challenges to reach its present standing, yet new hurdles lie ahead. Print media faces two stark realities: a shrinking market and declining readership. Distribution is no longer the problem—preference is. As circulation falls, advertising naturally follows.

Digital and electronic media now dominate public attention. Information technology governs how people consume news; smartphones have replaced paper. In this environment, sustaining an independent, principled print newspaper is an increasingly demanding task.

A responsible press respects the law and serves society by reporting facts, ideas, and informed opinions as close to the truth as possible. Yet maintaining fairness and independence within state regulations and social pressures is never easy. Still, the press must continue to question, inform, and alert society—and we take pride in fulfilling that role.

As we conclude 30 years and begin our 31st, we frame this phase around a central theme: old problems, new government. Nepal is set to form new governments at all three levels under the federal democratic republic. Local governments remain the most crucial, while provincial governments have yet to prove fully effective. The federal government carries the greatest responsibility. Though debates persist over two-tier versus three-tier governance, the three-tier system is now in practice, and its outcomes will unfold with time.

Nepal continues to struggle with poverty, unemployment, underdevelopment, brain drain, corruption, and chronic health issues. Deep-rooted social evils—untouchability, dowry, and chaupadi—persist. Many citizens still lack clean water, healthcare, and quality education. Transitional justice remains unresolved, while global and domestic tensions, conflict, and power struggles cast long shadows. The economy is under severe strain, worsened by unplanned urbanization, disorganized rural roads, and declining agriculture.

In this context, Himalaya Times focuses on long-standing issues confronting the new government. We have symbolically presented perspectives from scholars and experts, hoping policymakers and society alike will seriously address these inherited challenges.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all contributing writers for their insights. We also thank our colleagues, readers, advertisers, customers, and well-wishers for their unwavering support. As we move forward, we trust that this shared commitment will continue to guide and strengthen our journey.