National recognition · Meritocratic · Transparent
A proposed national honours system recognising exceptional service to Nepal — in public life, arts and culture, science and innovation, community development, and humanitarian work. Awarded on merit through an independent and transparent process.
National orders
A proposed hierarchy of national orders recognising the highest levels of service to Nepal. Awarded by the King on the recommendation of an independent Honours Committee — not by political appointment.
The highest national honour. Awarded to those who have made an extraordinary and enduring contribution to Nepal's national life — in diplomacy, governance, culture, science, or humanitarian service. Limited to a small number of living recipients at any time. Awarded personally by the King.
Awarded for outstanding service to Nepal over a sustained period — in public administration, education, healthcare, arts, or community development. Open to Nepali citizens from all walks of life, not only prominent public figures.
Recognising exceptional contribution to the preservation, promotion, or enrichment of Nepal's cultural and civilisational heritage — awarded to artists, craftspeople, scholars, linguists, musicians, and cultural custodians.
Decorations and medals
A broader range of decorations and medals recognising service across sectors and levels — making national recognition accessible to ordinary Nepalis doing extraordinary work in their communities.
Awarded to civilians who have shown exceptional bravery in saving lives or protecting others — in natural disasters, accidents, fires, and emergencies. Open to all ages, including children.
Recognising long-term voluntary community service — volunteer health workers, teachers in remote communities, heritage conservation volunteers, and community leaders who have served their communities without recognition or reward.
Recognising Nepal's most innovative minds — scientists, engineers, social innovators, and entrepreneurs who have developed solutions to Nepal's challenges or created value for the Nepali economy.
For young Nepalis aged 16–30 who have shown exceptional achievement, leadership, or service — building a culture that celebrates young people who contribute to their communities and nation.
Fields of recognition
Honours are awarded across a wide range of fields — not limited to government service or prominence. Excellence in any field of service to Nepal is eligible.
Civil servants, administrators, diplomats, and public officials who have served Nepal with integrity, excellence, and dedication over a sustained career.
Teachers, academics, researchers, and education administrators who have expanded Nepal's knowledge, built institutions, or dedicated careers to teaching future generations.
Doctors, nurses, health workers, and medical researchers who have served Nepal's health — particularly those who have worked in underserved communities or pioneered healthcare advances.
Artists, musicians, writers, poets, filmmakers, and cultural practitioners who have enriched Nepal's cultural life, preserved traditions, or brought Nepal's culture to the world.
Scientists, engineers, technologists, and innovators who have advanced Nepal's capabilities, created economic value, or solved national challenges through technology.
Community leaders, NGO workers, social entrepreneurs, and volunteers who have transformed their communities through dedication, ingenuity, and long-term service.
Conservation leaders, environmental activists, community forest managers, and biodiversity protectors who have safeguarded Nepal's natural heritage.
Nepali citizens who have brought honour to Nepal internationally — through diplomacy, peacekeeping, international sport, global arts, or representing Nepal with distinction abroad.
How it works
An independent, transparent, and meritocratic process — not a political appointment or patronage system. Anyone can nominate. The independent Honours Committee selects. The King awards.
Any Nepali citizen can nominate another citizen for a national honour. Nominations include evidence of service, community support, and a statement of reasons. Self-nomination is not accepted.
An independent committee of eminent citizens — experts in relevant fields, former recipients, civil society leaders — reviews all nominations against published criteria. No political appointments to this committee.
The committee recommends recipients to the King. The recommendation is binding on all but the highest orders. Rejected nominations are explained in writing to the nominator.
A national investiture ceremony — broadcast publicly — at which the King or Queen personally awards honours to recipients. All recipients are publicly announced. No secret honours.
Who receives honours
The honours system would recognise Nepalis from every walk of life — not only the prominent and powerful, but the ordinary Nepalis doing extraordinary things in their communities.
