Radio Sagarmatha 102.4 MHz holds a historic place in Nepal’s broadcasting history as the first independent community radio station in South Asia. Based in Kathmandu, it has been a powerful voice for freedom of expression, social justice, and civic participation since its inception in the late 1990s.

Quick Overview

• Station Name: Radio Sagarmatha

• Frequency: 102.4 MHz

• Location: Bhanimandal, Lalitpur, Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

• Founded: May 1997

• Broadcast Language: Nepali (with occasional programs in English and other local languages)

• Owner/Operator: Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists (NEFEJ)

• Coverage Area: Primarily Kathmandu Valley, with global access via online streaming

• Tagline: “The Voice of the People”

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Historical Significance

Radio Sagarmatha was the first independent public-interest broadcaster in a region where media was traditionally controlled by the state. It symbolized a turning point for media freedom in Nepal, inspiring a wave of community radio stations across the country.

Named after Sagarmatha, the Nepali name for Mount Everest, the station embodies the spirit of elevation—raising the voices of marginalized communities and encouraging grassroots-level discourse.

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Mission and Vision

Radio Sagarmatha’s mission is to promote:

• Democracy and Human Rights

• Environmental Protection

• Social Inclusion

• Media Literacy and Transparency

It aims to be a platform where citizens speak for themselves, rather than being spoken for—an approach central to community radio.

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Programming and Content

Radio Sagarmatha features a wide variety of content that blends news, education, and cultural programming.

Key Program Categories

• Civic Education: Public service shows on democracy, constitution, and local governance

• Environmental Journalism: Reflecting its NEFEJ roots, the station prioritizes sustainability and conservation

• Gender and Social Justice: Programming for women’s rights, minority voices, and LGBTQ+ issues

• Music and Arts: Celebrating Nepal’s folk heritage, local artists, and cultural fusion

• Youth and Education: Interactive shows for students and young professionals

• Health and Awareness: Regular segments on public health, including mental health and reproductive rights

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Community Involvement

One of Radio Sagarmatha’s strongest features is its deep-rooted community involvement. It encourages participatory content creation, where local people contribute to the news, tell their stories, or even co-host programs.

Examples of Impact

• During political transitions and crises, the station acted as a neutral, factual source of information.

• In post-earthquake recovery and the COVID-19 pandemic, it broadcast life-saving information and relief updates.

• The station offers training for citizen journalists, empowering the next generation of ethical media practitioners.

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Technical and Digital Reach

While it started as a local FM station, Radio Sagarmatha now offers:

• Online Streaming: Accessible globally via radiosagarmatha.org

• Social Media Presence: Active on Facebook and YouTube

• Podcast Archives: Select programs are archived for later access

• Collaborations: Works with international media, NGOs, and academic institutions

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Recognition and Awards

• UNESCO and international NGOs have recognized Radio Sagarmatha for promoting press freedom.

• It is studied in media and communication courses as a model for grassroots broadcasting in emerging democracies.

• Numerous journalists trained here have gone on to become prominent figures in Nepali media.

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Did You Know?

• Radio Sagarmatha had to fight legal and political challenges for its license—its success paved the way for over 300 community radio stations across Nepal today.

• It operates under a non-profit model, run by a trust dedicated to media freedom.

• Sagarmatha (Mount Everest) isn’t just a name—it’s a metaphor for reaching new heights in community empowerment.