KATHMANDU: Tourism entrepreneur Ambika Shrestha is to be awarded the Late Hem Bahadur Malla Award 2010. Shrestha is the owner of the Dwarika Hotel, a four hotel renowned for its historic architecture in Kathmandu.

The award that was established in 2002 in memory of noted administrator Malla, would be presented by the Nepal Public Administration Association. The award carries a purse of Rs 100,000 and a letter of appreciation.

Earlier, education expert Kedar Bhakta Mathema, former UN official Chandani Joshi, heart specialist Dr Bhagawan Koirala, former chief secretary of the government Dr Bimal Prasad Koirala and Mahabir Pun, a social activist were felicitated with the award.

The award has been given to noted organisations and individuals for outstanding contribution to the sectors of industry and commerce, administration, management, public health and other social sectors.