KATHMANDU, Aug 21: The Nepal Public Administration Association (NPAA) has announced Dr Ram Krishna Makaju Shrestha and former Finance Minister Rameshwar Prasad Khanal as recipients of the Hem Bahadur Malla Award for 2081 BS and 2082 BS, respectively.
The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to public administration, public service, management, and institutional development. The announcement was made on Friday during a press conference and award declaration ceremony jointly organized by the NPAA and Salt Trading Corporation Limited at the latter’s headquarters in Kalimati.
Dr Makaju, selected for the 2081 BS award, is credited with playing a key role in the establishment and development of Dhulikhel Hospital, widely regarded as one of Nepal’s leading healthcare institutions. According to the NPAA, his leadership in healthcare management, commitment to quality medical services, and contribution to institutional development and public welfare were key factors behind his selection.
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Former Finance Minister Khanal, who also served as Finance Secretary, has been chosen for the 2082 BS award in recognition of his contributions to strengthening public administration and public service delivery. The NPAA said his role in policymaking, administrative management, and governance reforms has had a lasting impact on the country’s public sector.
The recipients were selected on the recommendation of a committee led by former government secretary and former NPAA President Krishna Gyawali. The NPAA approved the recommendation and decided to confer the award on the two distinguished figures.
Both awardees will receive a cash prize of Rs 200,000 along with the honor. The NPAA said the award aims to recognize individuals who have made long-term, exemplary, and institution-building contributions to public life.
The awards will be presented at a special ceremony scheduled for Monday.
The award was established in memory of the late Hem Bahadur Malla, a former leader of Salt Trading Corporation Limited, known for his managerial excellence. Since its inception in 2060 BS, the award has recognized individuals who have made notable contributions to public administration, management, public service, public distribution, and other areas of national importance.
So far, 21 distinguished personalities from fields including administration, healthcare, education, justice, diplomacy, social service, and public affairs have received the award. The NPAA said the achievements of Dr Makaju and Khanal are expected to inspire younger generations working in public service, institutional leadership, professionalism, and accountability.
