Language Commission Honors Contributors to Mother Tongues
Kathmandu, February 21, 2026 [2082 Falgun 9]
On the occasion of International Mother Language Day, the Language Commission (Bhasha Aayog) presented honors and awards to Bamkumari Budha Magar, Nepal Bhasa Manka Khala, and the Gandaki Province Ministry of Social Development for their contributions to the protection of mother tongues.
Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Anil Kumar Sinha presented the Language Year Personality Award, 2079, to Budha Magar at a program organized by the Language Commission in the capital on Friday. The award included a cash prize of NPR 25,000. The minister also honored Nepal Bhasa Manka Khala and the Gandaki Province Ministry of Social Development by presenting them with certificates of appreciation.
Addressing the program, Minister Sinha stressed that mother tongues are invaluable national assets and should be promoted. He said such programs increase the encouragement and energy of those working to protect mother tongues. He added that promoting language, art, and culture also supports the country’s broader development.
Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Nepal, Mohammad Saifur Rahman, said Nepal and Bangladesh share many cultural similarities and praised both countries for giving strong importance to love, protection, and promotion of mother tongues.
The program was held under the chairmanship of the Commission’s Acting Chair, Krishna Prasad Nyaupane. Commission Member Matrika Prasad Pokhrel delivered the welcome remarks, stating that on the occasion of the 23rd Mother Language Day, the Commission organized an interactive program on mother tongues and honored individuals and institutions contributing to their promotion.
A committee formed under the coordination of Commission Member Suresh Manandhar selected the Language Year Personality and the institutions to be honored. Coordinator Manandhar highlighted Budha Magar’s contributions to promoting the Magar Pang language of Rolpa through various literary activities, dictionary compilation, and efforts supporting the development of art and culture. He also stated that Nepal Bhasa Manka Khala, under the leadership of Padmaratna Tuladhar, has raised its voice for the promotion of Nepal Bhasa as well as other mother tongues.
Awards