Kathmandu: Banking experts, music icons, social workers, entrepreneurs and professionals from various fields were brought together on a single platform as the National Online Journalists Association (NOJA) honored outstanding personalities at the 12th NOJA Honor Awards.
The Lifetime Achievement Award, the most prestigious honor of this year’s event, was presented to banking and cooperative sector expert Kamal Kharel in recognition of his long-standing contribution to Nepal’s banking and financial sector.
The Special Honor Awards were presented to veteran singer Ananda Karki, construction entrepreneur Balibhadr Rana, and Gokarneshwor Municipality Mayor Dipak Kumar Risal.
Similarly, social worker Dr. Laxmi Prasad Rai and entrepreneur Kumar Karki received the Special Campaigner Honor Awards.
The NOJA Awards also recognized achievements in music and acting. Singer Chandani Shakya, musician Santosh Shrestha, actress Jharana Risal, and actor Bikash Lamichhane were honored for their contributions to the entertainment sector.
In literature, Tribhuvan University Associate Professor Gyananishtha Gyawali was honored, while Dinesh Neupane was recognized for his contribution to the social sector. Young entrepreneurs Saroj Maharjan, Sahang Lawati Limbu, and Baikuntha Dahal were also honored.
The Best Women Honor Awards were presented to Rita Awal, Bindu Gyawali, Shobita Dhamala, Shital Sharma, and Kumud Bhatt for their contributions to women’s entrepreneurship and social development.
In the health sector, Krishna Ghimire, proprietor of Om Chabahil Dental Hospital, received the Health Honor Award.
The Journalism Award, carrying a cash prize of Rs. 11,111, was presented to journalist Samana Devkota, based in the United States.
Speaking at the event, NOJA President Mukunda Dhungana said the honors would encourage the recipients to take on greater responsibility and contribute further to their respective fields.
Chief Guest Kamlesh Kumar Agrawal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), emphasized the growing need for truthful, factual and responsible journalism.
