Minister Stresses Need for Sustainable Infrastructure Development Alongside Environmental Protection for National Prosperity

Kathmandu. Minister for Forest and Environment, Madhav Prasad Chaugain, has emphasized the necessity of sustainable infrastructure development alongside environmental conservation for the prosperity of the nation.

Speaking at a program jointly organized by the Nepal Environment Journalists Group and the Earth Journalism Network on Wednesday, he informed that he currently holds the responsibility for ministries related to both subjects and is coordinating accordingly. Minister Chaugain stressed the sustainable use of natural resources for the country's prosperity and increasing people's income, stating that the coordinating role of the media is crucial in this regard.

He mentioned that all three tiers of government and concerned bodies must fulfill their responsibilities to guarantee good governance to the public and emphasized the implementation of existing laws. Minister Chaugain stated, "Federalism cannot be sustainable if the spirit of cooperation and coordination among the three tiers of government, as per the constitution, is not embraced; therefore, it is essential for all levels of government to perform their duties according to their responsibilities."

At the program, the European Union Ambassador to Nepal, Veronique Lorenzo, stated that the media plays a significant role in environmental protection, amplifying the voices of the people during disasters, and conveying public issues to stakeholders. Amy Sim, Asia Regional Manager for the Earth Journalism Network, provided information about the network and discussed how environmental journalists are contributing to environmental conservation.