Kathmandu — National Forum of Photojournalists Nepal (NFPJ Nepal) President Pradeep Raj Onta has stressed the need to strengthen professional photojournalism, protect photographers’ copyright and adapt to technological transformations, including the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Addressing the organisation’s 29th Annual General Meeting in Hattisar, Kathmandu, on Saturday, Onta said the organisation must strengthen its institutional capacity and become financially self-reliant to address emerging challenges in the profession.
As he enters the final year of his second term, Onta emphasised the importance of preparing the next generation of leaders and urged photojournalists to develop professional skills and institutional leadership capabilities alongside their photographic work.
He identified AI and copyright protection as major challenges facing photojournalism, expressing concern that Nepal’s existing legal framework does not adequately protect the copyright of photographs.
Onta stressed that the unauthorised use of photographs must be addressed and called for effective legal provisions and enforcement to ensure that photojournalists’ rights, permission requirements and professional contributions are respected.
He also highlighted NFPJ Nepal’s continued efforts to enhance professional capacity, protect the rights and welfare of photojournalists, and document their contributions. He called for building a sustainable institution that relies on its own resources rather than depending primarily on external assistance.
International Photography Summit Planned for April 26, 2027
NFPJ Nepal plans to organise an International Photography Summit in Nepal on Baisakh 13, 2084 (April 26, 2027) , on the occasion of National Photojournalism Day, with the aim of promoting Nepal’s tourism through international photography and photojournalism.
The organisation aims to invite around 100 photojournalists and photographers from different countries, including across Asia, to participate in the summit.
The event will showcase Nepal’s mountains, forests, environment, wildlife and cultural heritage to international audiences, highlighting the country’s tourism potential through visual storytelling.
The summit will feature international photography exhibitions, an international photojournalism award, thematic discussions, experience-sharing sessions, and training programmes in photography and photojournalism.
The initiative is expected to strengthen collaboration between Nepali photojournalists and the international photography community while contributing to tourism promotion.
Annual Meeting approves reports, honours Photojournalists
During the meeting, General Secretary Ghanshyam Shrestha presented the organisation’s progress report for the fiscal year 2025/26, highlighting activities related to organisational expansion, professional capacity development, international cooperation and the protection of photojournalists’ rights.
Treasurer Pradeep Kumar Shrestha presented the financial report. The assembly unanimously approved all reports presented at the meeting.
The organisation also presented the Harigopal Pradhan Photojournalism Awards in five categories. Anup Pradhan received the award in the adventure category; Sagar Giri of Tanahun in environment and tourism; Badri Thapa in entertainment; Prakash Gopali in culture; and Basanta Sherpa of Pokhara in sports.
The Madhav Thapa Risky Photojournalism Award 2083, established by former Armed Police Force Deputy Inspector General Madhav Thapa, was presented to Harish Singh Nagal along with a cash prize of Rs. 5,000.
The NFPJ President Award 2083 was presented to organisation member Ramsharan Maharjan, known as Ajay Lensman. The Ramechhap District Branch was named the Best Branch of the Year.
Promod Chaudhary, proprietor of Chaudhary Traders, was also honoured with a letter of appreciation in recognition of his support for the organisation.
Senior Vice-President Lekh Bahadur Shrestha, known as Sagar, delivered the welcome remarks. Former presidents Min Ratna Bajracharya and Bikash Rauniyar extended their best wishes.
The meeting was attended by former presidents, representatives from various organizations, China Cultural Center in Nepal, central committee members, lifetime members and other members of NFPJ Nepal.
