KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 13
'Bhawan-Kirti Ratna' award has been presented to the National Innovation Centre, Kirtipur. The centre's Chairperson Mahabir Pun received the award instituted by former chairperson of Non-Resident Nepali Association Bhawan Bhatta amidst a programme today.
The award carries a purse of Rs 10 million.
Handing over the cash award and certificate of appreciation to Pun, Minister of Education, Science and Technology Devendra Poudel underlined the need to expand research centres across the country for economic development of the nation.
On the occasion, he said youth scientists should be incentivised towards research.
"Innovation centres should be established for entrepreneurship, which would take ahead the country to the path of economic prosperity," the minister empathised. He also called for the NRNA to bring investment to the country.
Founder of Osho Tapoban Nepal Swami Ananda Arun shared that he was establishing Yoga and meditation innovation centre in all 77 districts of the country.
Likewise, Chairperson of the National Innovation Centre Mahabir Pun said one couldn't become an entrepreneur without research.
He called for the government to spur investment in the research sector.
"It is the job of entrepreneurs to improve the economy.
Research is instrumental for developing industries and enterprises.
Only one research centre cannot cater to the needs of the nation. There is need for many more research centres," he emphasised.
Bhatta said the honour was conferred on various personalities as per the announcement made on the occasion of the 10th conference of the NRNA. He informed that the award would be presented to an individual and institution in every two years.
It was claimed that the award was so far the largest amount carrying award in Nepal as of today.
The award was dedicated to the centre acknowledging the contributions Pun extended to scientific research, information, technology and other sectors of society.
A version of this article appears in the print on September 14, 2022 of The Himalayan Times.
