Kathmandu, February 5
Himalaya Shumsher Rana, the first governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) breathed his last today morning at the age of 95.
According to family members, Rana passed away while undergoing treatment at Norvic International Hospital in Thapathali, Kathmandu.
Rana was admitted to the hospital for treatment a few days ago after having long been afflicted with pneumonia and pulmonary complications.
Rana, born in 1928, was also the founder of the Himalayan Bank and the first finance secretary of the country. A prominent leader in the civil society movement of Nepal, he wasalso proactive as the founder of the General Election Observation Committee (GEOC) and advocated for free, fair, and impartial elections.
Late Rana is also accredited to addressing significant issues related to country's sovereignty as he had launched a campaign to encourage use of Nepali currency within Nepal. Earlier, Indian currency was used along the Tarai belt.
Political leaders and the present governor of NRB have also expressed their condolences following the sad demise of Rana. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal extended deep sorrow over the passing away of central bank's first governor and extended heartfelt condolences to the be-reaved family.
Similarly, the current Governor of the NRB, Maha Prasad Adhikari, said the demise of the first NRB governor is an irreparable loss for the country.
Paying tribute to the late Rana at Rana Niwas, Thapathali, Governor Adhikari said, "The demise of Rana is a huge loss for the overall economy and banking sector of the country. This sector has lost a guardian."
Adhikari recalled that Rana also worked as a finance secretary of the country as well as represented Nepal in the United Nations.
Rana was cremated at the Pashupatinath temple today itself. He is survived by two sons and two daughters.
A version of this article appears in the print on February 6, 2023, of The Himalayan Times.
