Essay on Journalist and Author Netra Tamang

Netra Bahadur Tamang is a distinguished Nepali journalist, children’s author, and cultural advocate whose work has left a meaningful impact on Nepal’s media and literary landscape. Through a combination of investigative journalism, socially engaged storytelling, and active leadership, Tamang has established himself as a voice for the voiceless—especially for marginalized communities and children.

Early Life and Education

Born in Indrawati Rural Municipality of Sindhupalchok District, Nepal, Netra Tamang grew up witnessing social inequalities and linguistic marginalization, which would later shape his professional journey. He pursued higher education in Mass Communication and Journalism at Tribhuvan University, where he cultivated a passion for truth-telling and social change through media.

Journalism Career

Tamang began his journalism career in the early 2000s, working with national publications such as Nagarik Dainik, Naya Patrika, Pahilopost, and Bizmandu. His reporting often focused on issues overlooked by mainstream outlets, including indigenous rights, rural development, labor migration, and child welfare. He also served as Bureau Editor of Everest Times, a Nepali-language newspaper published from New York, expanding his global reach.

In 2020, Tamang was selected as a fellow for the Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE) Conference organized by the Missouri School of Journalism—an international recognition of his commitment to credible, in-depth reporting. His work has also taken him to the UAE, India, Bangladesh, and the United States for professional engagements and research.

Contributions to Children’s Literature

Beyond journalism, Netra Tamang is an accomplished children’s author. His stories blend entertainment with education, using accessible language and culturally relevant characters to connect with young readers. His notable books include Bojraj ra Baunne, Phurbako Photo, Kalo Biralo, and Jambiyangko Janmadin, the last of which has been incorporated into Nepal’s Grade 5 school curriculum. Many of his works are bilingual, contributing to the promotion of mother tongues like Tamang, which are often underrepresented in formal education.

He has written and edited more than 20 storybooks and picture books, many of which have been translated into English, Tamang, and Korean. Tamang’s storytelling emphasizes empathy, cultural pride, and problem-solving skills, making him one of Nepal’s most influential voices in contemporary children's literature.

Leadership and Advocacy

Tamang is also a leader in the field of media rights and indigenous advocacy. As president of the Association of Tamang Journalists (ATJ), he has led campaigns for linguistic inclusion in national media, including a successful effort to launch Tamang-language news through the national news agency, RSS. He also holds a central position in the Federation of Indigenous Nationalities Journalists (FoNIJ), where he advocates for representation and press freedom for marginalized communities.

Vision and Legacy

Netra Tamang envisions a future where journalism is rooted in justice, children grow up with culturally relevant books, and Nepal's indigenous languages are preserved and promoted. His long-term goals include developing a Tamang language curriculum and establishing platforms for ethnic minority youth in media and literature.

Conclusion

Netra Tamang is not only a journalist and author—he is a changemaker. His ability to blend hard-hitting journalism with imaginative storytelling makes him a unique figure in Nepali society. Whether exposing truths through news reports or inspiring young minds through literature, Tamang’s work reflects a deep commitment to truth, equity, and cultural pride. In a country as diverse as Nepal, professionals like Netra Tamang are essential to building an inclusive and thoughtful future.

Written By ChatGPT - July 15, 2025