Feb 09, Kathmandu - In a grand ceremony held at the Crown Plaza Hotel in New Delhi on Friday evening, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Foundation recognized distinguished individuals from Nepal, India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka for their significant contributions to democracy, human rights, and press and free expression.

The awardees include Raju Lama, International President of the SAARC Journalists' Forum from Nepal; Md. Abdur Rahman, Secretary General from Bangladesh; and Smita Mishra, a member from India.

Expressing his gratitude, Raju Lama stated that such recognition energizes journalists to advocate more vigorously for democracy, human rights, and press freedom. He emphasized that the SAARC Journalists' Forum has consistently championed peace, democracy, and media liberty across the region.

Other notable recipients of the South Asian Hero 2026 award include Ruddra Subedi from SAARC Journalists' Forum Nepal; Nrupendra Lal Shrestha, Acting Chairman of SAARC Journalists Forum Nepal; Ajmat Ali Siddiqui; Anuruddha Sudanshu from India; Dr. Shashibhushan Kumar; and Rahul Samantalagama from Sri Lanka.

Dr. Amila Morimad, President of the SAARC Foundation, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to honoring individuals who have contributed to democracy, human rights, and press freedom across South Asia. She highlighted that the foundation continues to work tirelessly to protect and promote these fundamental values in the region.