Dialogue Details

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FLC Supports Capacity Building of Journalists on Federalism in Madhesh Province

The Federalism and Localization Centre (FLC), in collaboration with the Mass Communication Authority, Madhesh Province, successfully concluded a two-day residential training program for around 60 senior and practicing journalists from the districts of Siraha, Saptari, Dhanusha, and Mahottari. The training was held in Dhalkebar, Dhanusha, on June 17–18, 2026 (Asar 3–4, 2083).

The program aimed to strengthen journalists’ understanding of Nepal’s federal system of governance and enhance their capacity to report on federalism accurately and constructively. As the implementation of federalism continues to evolve, the training sought to equip media professionals with a deeper understanding of constitutional provisions, intergovernmental relations, and the distribution of powers and responsibilities among the federal, provincial, and local levels of government.

Organized by the Mass Communication Authority, Madhesh Province, with technical support from the FLC, the training featured interactive sessions led by experts in federalism and governance. Resource persons included Dr. Khimlal Devkota, Chairperson of FLC and former Member of National Assembly; Prof. Dr. Bhogendra Jha, FLC Board Member, former Vice-Chairperson of the Madhesh Province Policy and Planning Commission, and former Member of the State Restructuring Commission; and Mr. Prahlad Lamichhane, FLC Board Member and former Member of the Constituent Assembly.

The sessions covered the conceptual and practical dimensions of political, fiscal, and administrative federalism; constitutional provisions relating to the division and exercise of state powers; intergovernmental relations; and emerging challenges and opportunities in the implementation of federalism. Particular emphasis was placed on the role of the media in promoting transparency, accountability, informed public discourse, and evidence-based reporting on federal governance.

The training program was inaugurated by Ms. Sharada Devi Khadka, Minister for Labour and Transport of the Government of Madhesh Province, who attended the event as the Chief Guest. The inaugural session was chaired by Mr. Jitendra Khadka, Chairperson of the Mass Communication Authority, Madhesh Province, and moderated by Mr. Santosh Sah, Acting Chief Administrative Officer of the Authority.

Throughout the training, participants actively engaged in discussions and shared their experiences in reporting on governance and public affairs. The interactive format enabled journalists to exchange perspectives with experts and peers while enhancing their understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with Nepal’s federal system.

The program forms part of FLC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional understanding of federalism through research, policy dialogue, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement. By supporting the professional development of journalists, FLC seeks to contribute to informed public discourse and strengthen democratic governance through quality, evidence-based and fact-based reporting on federalism and public policy issues.