Kathmandu, Sept. 13
The International Coordination
Council of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has conferred the Rs. 10
million 'Bhaban Kirti Ratna' award to Mahabir Pun, founder and chairman of
National Innovation Centre.
Minister for Education, Science and
Technology, Devendra Paudel handed over the award to Pun amidst a ceremony
organised in Kathmandu on Tuesday.
The award is established by former
president of the NRNA, Bhaban Bhatta, and is the prize of largest cash amount
in Nepal. It is being managed by BB Trust, a philanthropic organisation
established by Bhatta.
It was announced on the occasion of
the 10th World Conference of NRNA. This award and honor, which will
be given every two years, will be given to organizations or individuals who
work for the development of Nepal and the welfare of Nepali people.
According to the NRNA, the award
was given to Pun, a scientist and philanthropist, appreciating his contribution
to the progress and development of the nation in scientific research,
information technology and other sectors of society including the establishment
of the NIC.
Bhatt, chairman of BB Trust said
that he is extremely happy to confer the award to Pun.
Bhatta was born in a middle-class
family in Tandrang, Gorkha district, entered Japan as a student and worker at a
young age and rose to become a successful businessman. A decade and a half
back, he established BB Holdings in Nepal and established hotels, education,
tourism, air services, energy businesses.
"We all live a normal life.
But life should be such that it can benefit not only oneself but also one's
society, one's country and everyone around one," Bhatt said, stating that
he is hopeful that this award will help all those who are on the path of
benefiting the society.
Likewise, Pun was born in Nangi
village of Myagdi district and worked as a teacher in Nepal after his secondary
education and obtained his education from the University of Nebraska in the
United States.
His hard work and success for the
expansion of internet services in Myagdi made Pun known in the international
arena. Pun is a researcher of Ashoka Foundation and winner of the famous Ramon
Magsaysay Award and other international awards of the Philippines.
The NIC established by him has been
contributing significantly to the field of science and research, encouraging
young scientists and supporting scientific research in Nepal.
Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 14 September 2022.
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