This research explores the significant role of Nepal Television (NTV) in the advancement of Nepali politics, focusing on its contribution to the preservation and promotion of Nepali language, art, and culture. Before the establishment of NTV in 1985, Nepal lacked its own television network, and urban areas, particularly Kathmandu, were primarily exposed to Indian television, mainly through Door darshan. Television was a luxury limited to the wealthy and was not widely seen as an essential tool for education or national unity.  In response to the cultural threat posed by foreign media, King Birendra initiated the creation of NTV with the aim of protecting Nepali language and culture. Despite challenges such as financial constraints, limited technology, and a lack of trained personnel, NTV was launched as a national broadcaster with a vision to promote Nepali identity. This study uses both primary and secondary data. Primary data is collected through interviews with media experts, former NTV employees, and cultural historians, while secondary data includes existing literature on Nepal's media history, cultural studies, and political discourse. The objectives of the research are to examine how NTV influenced the development of a national television culture, its role in promoting Nepali language and arts, and its impact on political and cultural expression over the past four decades. The findings demonstrate that NTV has been a critical tool for national unity, cultural preservation, and the shaping of Nepali politics, contributing significantly to the country's identity in the face of global media influence.

history, audio-visual journalism, media, cultural encroachment

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Articles/Online Content:

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Modi, N. (2017, November 6). Press is powerful but misuse of power is criminal, says PM Modi in Chennai. *India Today*. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/narendra-modi-chennai-daily-thanti-press-freedom-1080571-2017-11-06

Interviews:

Bhattarai, D. (2024, May 18). Former news coordinator of Kantipur Television, Bhattarai is project director of BBC Media Action, South Pacific.

Chitrakar, K. (2024, June 17). Former chief cameraman and deputy general manager of Nepal Television.

Ghimire, P. (2024, June 6). Chief cameraman of Nepal Television.

Shah, N. (2024, May 20). Head and founder chairman of Nepal Television Project.

Shukla, T. (2024, June 18). Former general manager of Nepal Television.