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Mr. Indra Bahadur Rijal stands as a multifaceted and influential personality within Nepal’s media and socio-political landscape. His career trajectory showcases a remarkable blend of journalistic acumen, strategic management, and dedicated public service. This in-depth profile explores the key facets of his professional and academic journey, highlighting his contributions and areas of expertise.
Early Life and Academic Foundations:
Born on November 6, 1975 (2032-07-20 B.S.) in Syangja, Nepal, Mr. Rijal’s roots are in the Gandaki Province. His educational journey began with strong involvement in student politics, serving as President of the Nepal Students’ Union at Nava Jyoti Ma.Vi (1988-1991 B.S.), Pokhara Multiple Campus (1992-1994 B.S.), and Shankar Dev Campus (1996-1998 B.S.). He also held the Vice-President position for the Nepal Students’ Union, Syangja District Committee (1995-1999 B.S.). These formative experiences undoubtedly shaped his leadership capabilities and commitment to social and political engagement.
He pursued higher education at Tribhuvan University, Nepal, earning a Master in Business Administration (MBA) in Management from Shanker Dev Campus in 2001. This academic background in management provides him with a unique perspective on the operational and strategic aspects of media organizations and consultancy services.
Notably, Mr. Rijal also holds an Honorary Academician (PhD) in Social Science from the International Academy of Social Sciences (IASS) in Florida, USA. While such honorary degrees are typically bestowed in recognition of significant contributions rather than traditional academic research, it underscores his recognized impact and intellectual engagement within the social sciences, globally. The IASS, based in Albany, Georgia, USA, is a learned society with a focus on social sciences, publishing academic journals and organizing international conferences. It’s important to note that while reputable, honorary doctorates from such institutions are distinct from traditional, research-based PhDs.
A Veteran in Nepali Journalism:
Mr. Rijal’s journalistic career spans over three decades, marked by diverse roles and a consistent commitment to informing the public. He possesses a deep and sound knowledge of critical national and international issues, including economics, management, security-crime, social science, and contemporary political affairs.
His leadership in media is evident through his current roles as Editor-in-Chief/Publisher for both www.NepalBahas.com, a prominent online news portal, and Sadawahar Magazine, an eco-political newspaper. Previously, he steered Rastriya Janamanch Weekly as its Editor-in-Chief/Publisher for eight years (2000-2008 AD). His early career saw him contribute as a Sub-editor to various weeklies, including Suruchi Weekly, Rastrapukar Weekly, and Prakampan Weekly (1992-1999 B.S.), and serve as a Consulting Editor for Aarthik National Daily. His prolific writing has graced the pages of esteemed publications such as Gorkhapartra Daily, The Rising Nepal, Peoples Review Weekly, and Weekly Chronical, reflecting his consistent engagement with public discourse.
Expert in Media Consultancy and Project Management:
Beyond his editorial roles, Mr. Rijal has established himself as a sought-after Freelance Consultant. His expertise encompasses training in professional journalism, program facilitation, rapporteuring, and event management, as well as crucial skills in proposal and report writing.
His consultancy services have been integral to several high-impact projects:
Media Consultant for Perception Study on Women’s Economic Empowerment and Leadership (2018-2019): This project, funded by UN WOMEN, Nepal Country Office, focused on social norms and community practices, demonstrating his involvement in gender and development issues.
Media Consultant on MILE Dissemination Events (2017): Supported by USAID Nepal, this initiative involved the dissemination of educational materials for the Ministry of Education (MoE)/Government of Nepal (GoN), highlighting his role in public awareness campaigns.
Media Consultant on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedom (2009-2011): Funded by the European Commission (EC), Nepal Office, this project involved collaboration with National Peace Campaign (NPC), Creative Intonation Forum (CIF), and Transcend Vision Nepal (TVN), showcasing his commitment to human rights advocacy.
Media Consultant on Incorporating Peoples’ Aspiration in Nepal’s Federal Constitution (2009): Funded by Misereor, Germany, and carried out by Alliance for Peace and Development Nepal (APDN) in partnership with NPC, this critical role underscored his involvement in constitutional and political processes during a pivotal period for Nepal.
Leadership and Affiliations:
Mr. Rijal’s influence extends deeply into professional and political organizations. He is a prominent figure within the Nepali Congress, serving as a Central Convention Representative for Syangja Constituency No. 1, a Member of Secretariat for the Nepali Congress Central Election Security Coordination Sub-Committee 2022-2023, and a Central Member of the Nepali Congress Central Information, Communication and Publicity Department. His long-standing active membership in the Nepali Congress since 2054 B.S. (1997 AD) underscores his dedication to democratic politics in Nepal.
In the journalistic sphere, he holds significant positions such as the Founding Chairman of the Society Of Syangja Journalist Nepal, a National Councilor of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), and a Leader of the Nepal Press Union (NPU). Both FNJ and NPU are crucial organizations in Nepal, advocating for press freedom, journalists’ rights, and professional standards. His roles within these bodies signify his commitment to strengthening the media landscape in Nepal.
Furthermore, his leadership roles include:
General Secretary of the Association of Writers and Kathmandu Editors (AWAKE)
Central Member of the Democratic Print Media National Society
Promoter/Chairman of Sadawahar Media House Pvt. Ltd.
Central Vice President of the Federation of National Kshetri Society
Central Member of Omcar Federation
Board Director/Promoter for Samyukta Shakti Saving and Credit Co-operative Limited and Hey Yuwa Saving and Credit Co-operative Ltd., demonstrating his engagement in economic empowerment initiatives.
Chairman/Executive Board of Lions Club Of Kathmandu Samriddhi (120076)
Public Relation Committee Chair (Director) at Rotary Club of Patan Durbar Square (2010-2014)
Past Treasurer of Syangja-Kathmandu Linkage Committee
Advisor for FNJ Syangja
Personal Attributes and Vision:
Mr. Indra Bahadur Rijal is described as a dynamic professional. His hobbies of business, traveling, investigative journalism, writing, and social and political works reflect a well-rounded personality with diverse interests and a continuous drive for learning and contribution. He is fluent in Nepali and Hindi, and possesses a working knowledge of English, which aids his national and international engagements.
In summary, Mr. Indra Bahadur Rijal is a highly experienced journalist, a strategic media consultant, and a dedicated leader in Nepal’s political and professional spheres. His extensive academic background, coupled with his vast practical experience and deep commitment to social and political issues, positions him as a pivotal figure in shaping public discourse and advocating for democratic values and professional integrity in Nepal.
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