Apr 24, Kathmandu - Nepal Academy has announced the selection of Pragya Awards for the year 2082, recognizing outstanding contributions in language, literature, culture, philosophy, and social sciences. This year, for the first time, the Academy has also launched regional Pragya Awards to honor diverse linguistic and cultural communities.

According to a press release issued by Dr. Dhan Prasad Subedi, General Secretary of the Nepal Academy, a total of 12 recipients will receive the prestigious Pragya Award, each carrying a cash prize of NPR 100,000.

The awardees include renowned scholars and writers across various fields: Professor Abhi Subedi for Criticism, Professor Mukundsharan Upadhyay for Language, Dr. Dambar Chemjong for Social Sciences, Shailendra Sakar for Poetry, Professor Som Prasad Khatiwada for Culture, Sushila Pradhanang for Children's Literature, Ahuti for Prose Literature, Ishwor Chandra Gyawali for Philosophy, Dr. Sarbottam Shrestha for Translation, Naresh Kangamang Rai (United Kingdom) for International Relations, Buddha Yonzan for Indigenous Languages (Himali Pahadi), and Amrendra Kumar Yadav for Mother Tongue (Madhesi Terai).

In addition, the Academy will award regional honors of NPR 50,000 each to seven distinguished individuals representing various provinces, including Malisa Yakthumba Limbu (Madhesh Province), Muna Chaudhary (Madhesh Province), Shanti Priya Bandana (Bagmati Province), Anil Shrestha (Gandaki Province), Kshitij Magar (Lumbini Province), Ramananad Acharya (Karnali Province), and Karan Daya Sodari (Sudurpashchim Province).

The awards ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, Baisakh 17, 2023, at the Siddhicharan Hall in Kamaladi, Kathmandu, where the prizes will be officially conferred.