Raghu Dhital

Raghu Dhital is the Executive Director of BNMT Nepal. Raghu has worked in community based public health with BNMT for twenty years and has diverse experience across multiple sectors, including infectious diseases control programmes, WASH and disaster response and recovery. He has a strong passion for working with communities to identify priorities and facilitate solutions together. Throughout his career, he has worked in partnership with government health services and NGO networks to augment existing services and contribute to the development of Nepal.

His main responsibilities are to oversee the overall activities of BNMT; develop strategies, plans and activities for the all the programs of BNMT; establish good coordination and collaboration with government authorities, District Health Offices, NGO partners and advocates and facilitate the successful implementation of Tuberculosis Control Program.

Before taking this role, Raghu served as the Deputy director of BNMT. He previously worked as Project Manager for IMPACT TB phase I from 2017-2019. He was involved in Britain Nepal Medical Trust as a TB REACH Project Manager from February 2012 to June 2014 and has successfully implemented TB REACH WAVE- 2 project in Nepal. He has also been involved in Active Case Finding through systematic mobilization of community health volunteers including initiation of microscopic camps in hard to reach areas of Nepal.

Dr. Maxine Caws

Max Caws is the Principal Investigator of IMPACT TB and a senior TB researcher at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. She was Head of the TB group at Oxford University Clinical Research Unit Vietnam for 11 years and researches diverse aspects of TB including drug resistance, diagnosis, clinical treatment trials, bacterial virulence and host susceptibility determinants. She is currently based in Kathmandu, Nepal. She has a BSc in biochemistry from the University of St Andrews, a PHD in medical microbiology from King’s College, London, where her thesis topic was tuberculous meningitis, and an MSC in epidemiology from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

Laxmi Prasad Dahal

Laxmi Prasad Dahal is Chief Finance Officer of BNMT Nepal based on head office Kathmandu. He is responsible for overseeing the finances and accounting operations, financial planning and management of BNMT Nepal. He has worked at Birat Nepal Medical Trust, Nepal since January 2017. He earned his Masters’ degree in Commerce at Nepal Commerce Campus Kathmandu. He has over 15 years’ of professional experience in finance, accounts, taxation and audit matters.

Similarly, he worked in The Britain Nepal Medical Trust in Nepal with different capacities from July 2006 to December 2016.

Saki Thapa

Saki Thapa serves as the Advocacy, Networking, and Resource Mobilization Manager at BNMT Nepal. With a strong focus on project designing and grants application, she has demonstrated remarkable success in securing funds for numerous impactful initiatives. Notable among these are Health Link funded by UK aids, Enhancing Community Health funded by the Big Lottery Fund, Health Facilities Reconstruction and Health Service Strengthening I & II funded by AmeriCares, TB REACH Wave 5, Adolescents SRHR project funded by AmplifyChange, Project Horizon funded by BNMT UK, as well as the Global Fund projects 2017-2018 and 2018 to 2021. She has also contributed writing the projects – SUSTAIN: Emergency support and Sustenance to communities affected by crisis funded by AmeriCares, and COVID Kurakani, a supplement of COVID gene sequencing project, Epidemic Intelligence.

With an MSc in Public Health from the esteemed Berlin School of Public Health, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany, Saki has taken the lead in successfully implementing three Sexual and Reproductive health and Rights projects (AmplifyChange, Butterfly, Project Horizon) in rural Sindhupalchowk, Nepal. She has also spearheaded the Research, Evidence and Development Initiative (READ-It) project, focusing on evidence synthesis tailored to national gaps; and the Breaking the Stigma project, which explores the feasibility and acceptability of self-sampling for HPV as an alternative method for cervical cancer screening. Additionally, Saki holds a master’s degree in Health Care Management from Pokhara University, Nepal.

As a valuable member of the senior management team, Saki has played a key role in the development of organizational policies, policy briefs, project briefs, reports, storybooks, and IEC/BCC materials. She has also contributed significantly to the strategic planning of BNMT, shaping the organization’s vision and direction in the strategic plan for 2020-2025.

Rajesh Parajuli

Rajesh Parajuli is the Human Resource and Administration Manager of BNMT Nepal since July 2014. Before this, he has worked with the Britain Nepal Medical Trust since April 1994 at various sections in different capacities. Now, he is a member of Senior Management Team of BNMT Nepal. He is responsible for overall human resources management and administrative management of the organization including overseeing of hiring, retention, termination, personnel records, performance appraisal, legal compliance, compensation, benefits, development of policies and long-term staffing strategies, and day-to-day administrative, logistics and procurement management. He is also focal person for coordinating with the government authorities and other stakeholders.

Rajesh has a Masters Degree in social science from Tribhuvan University and obtained various professional courses at national level and international level. He has successfully represented the organization in different national and international level meeting, workshops and seminars.

Dr. Kritika Dixit

Kritika Dixit is the Research Manager at BNMT with experience of over nine years in infectious diseases, mental health, and reproductive and sexual health. She is leading a research programme focused on barriers to healthcare access especially in rural areas. Her team is generating evidence to inform patient-centric healthcare models to improve equity in communities. She led the research implementation to develop a locally appropriate socioeconomic support package for TB affected households in Nepal. She recently completed her PhD from Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.

Soma Rai Sitling

Soma Rai holds a pivotal role at BNMT Nepal, where she is responsible for managing the entire spectrum of administrative and operational functions within the organisation. Her duties include ensuring the efficient day-to-day running of internal systems and processes, while fostering a work environment that supports both staff productivity and project success.

A major aspect of her role involves overseeing all procurement activities, including planning, sourcing, vendor management, and ensuring compliance with organisational policies and donor regulations. Her meticulous approach ensures that resources are acquired in a timely, cost-effective, and transparent manner.

In addition to her administrative and procurement responsibilities, she leads the planning, coordination, and execution of key organisational events such as workshops, trainings, stakeholder meetings, and high-profile conferences linked to BNMT’s projects.Her ability to manage logistics, coordinate with partners, and host diverse audiences plays a critical role in the successful delivery of these events.

As the primary point of contact at BNMT Nepal, she regularly liaises with Board Members in Nepal, the Board of Trustees in the UK, as well as national and international visitors, donors, and collaborators. She also maintains strong ties with the organisation’s Founder Members, ensuring that BNMT's legacy and strategic direction are upheld.

Furthermore, she contributes to organisational leadership as a valued member of the Senior Management Team, participating in strategic planning and decision-making processes that shape BNMT’s future.

Bibha Dhungel

Bibha, an MBA graduate and passionate advocate for public engagement in health and science, leads the public engagement department at Birat Nepal Medical Trust since 2019. She also works as one of the Associate Festival Directors for the Global South Arts and Health Week, being held in Egypt in September 2023.

She has spearheaded diverse projects in BNMT, collaborating with communities, stakeholders, artists, and creative professionals, focusing on COVID-19, tuberculosis, and menstrual hygiene management. Notable projects include COVID animations, TB day activities with folk song and dance, community perspectives videos, Mithila art-themed TB murals, and project video summaries. She co-designed and led the ‘COVID Kurakani’ project, featuring televised panel discussions on pathogen sequencing. Additionally, she successfully organized the ‘Lead like a Woman’ national conference, empowering students to learn about leadership and overcome barriers. With 8 years of experience, Bibha leads the organization branding, managing all the organization owned digital media (websites/social media accounts), and diverse publications including the annual report, policy briefs and research summaries.

She has also contributed in writing successful grants for the organization including, COVID Kurakani (conversations), SUSTAIN series (1- 5), AmplifyChange and TB REACH and Global Fund. She engages in developing various reports and documentation, as well as monitoring and evaluation functions.

She is a talented singer and her interests include singing, dancing and art, with a particular interest in traditional Nepali music and dance forms.

Bhola Rai

Bhola Rai is a Grant Research Officer at BNMT Nepal’s head office in Kathmandu. Previously, he served as Project Manager in Makwanpur district, where he successfully led the Addressing the Social Determinants and Consequences of Tuberculosis in Nepal (ASCOT) project. This initiative, integrated within the IMPACT TB project, evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of socioeconomic support interventions for TB-affected households in Nepal.

Bhola contributed as a Research Associate for four years, working on the IMPACT TB project funded by the EU Horizon 2020 and the Seed Award project supported by the Wellcome Trust. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and, Master’s degree in Public Administration from Tribhuvan University.

With over seven years of experience in infectious disease research, Bhola specializes in data collection, management, and analysis. He is also the recipient of an early-career research grant from the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (RSTMH) and the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).

An accomplished researcher, Bhola has authored more than 20 publications in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals. His previous roles include serving as a Public Relations Officer at the Travel and Mountain Medicine Center in Kathmandu, a Team Leader for the Nepal Nutrition Intervention Project in Sarlahi (in collaboration with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health), and working with Nepal Netra Jyoti Sangh.

Manoj Kumar Sah

Dr. Manoj Kumar Sah serves as the Provincial Program Coordinator in Mahottari District,
where he oversees the planning, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of health
initiatives, including IMPACT TB 2. He also supports key projects such as CHANGE TB,
Accelerate Zero Leprosy, Nourish, Transform TB, and TB Vaccine in the district. His primary
focus is on implementing IMPACT TB project activities and facilitating research within the
district.
Manoj holds a Master’s degree in Sociology, a Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery
(BAMS), a Bachelor’s degree in Education specializing in Health, and a Certificate in General
Medicine.
He has extensive experience in public health, including coordination and management of district-
level health programs in areas such as reproductive health (RH), community-based newborn care
and child health (CB-NCP/IMCI and CB-IMNCI), nutrition, and HIV/AIDS. His expertise
extends to health system strengthening, inventory and logistics management, as well as providing
supportive supervision and monitoring of program activities.
Manoj diverse qualifications and experience highlight his commitment to improving public
health systems and delivering impactful health interventions in Nepal.

Gyanendra Shrestha

Gyanendra Shrestha is the National Program Coordinator of BNMT Nepal. Previously, he served as the Project Manager for the Epidemic Intelligence project and Eastern Regional Manager. An experienced public health professional and project leader, he began his career as a Statistical Officer for the Government of Nepal in 1997. Later, he joined BNMT as a Drug Scheme In-charge and progressed through roles as a District Programme Coordinator and Project Manager. With over 25 years of experience, he has developed a deep understanding of the implementation and key factors driving the successful delivery of community-based public health programs in Nepal.

Passionate about improving healthcare access and livelihoods for remote rural communities, he has successfully led numerous challenging and pioneering projects in close collaboration with community stakeholders. He is responsible for ensuring the successful field implementation of all organizational programs, as well as establishing strong coordination and networking with project partners, government authorities, major hospitals, health offices, and other development partners.

Gyanendra holds a double master’s degree in Public Administration and Population and Rural Development.

Swastika Shrestha

“Dr. Swastika Shrestha is a research associate at BNMT, where she initially joined as a research officer for the ‘Breaking the Stigma’ project. In this role, she was responsible for data collection and publishing an article based on the research findings. She later took the lead in drafting and managing research projects, including the Butterfly Project and the Assessing Challenges in Epilepsy (ACE) project. Her research proposal to explore the lived experiences of individuals with epilepsy in Nepal (ACE project) was awarded the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (RSTMH) Early career researcher (ECR) award in 2022. Additionally, she worked as the monitoring and evaluation officer for the large-scale Epidemic Intelligence Project, one of BNMT’s major consortium initiatives. Dr. Shrestha remains actively engaged in a range of research activities at BNMT, including grant writing, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and manuscript preparation. Her areas of interest in research revolve around exploring various social determinants of health via qualitative and quantitative research methods. She enjoys working with and learning from people from different walks of life.”

Dipendra Panday

Dipendra Panday serves as the Project Manager, Karnali Province, for the GF/UNDP funded TB project based in Surkhet District, Nepal. Previously, he has led the planning, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of several impactful projects, including the Epidemic Intelligence Project, IMPACT 2 TB, Target TB, and the TB Recovery Project. He has also provided support to projects, CHANGE TB, Accelerate Zero Leprosy, Nourish, Transform TB, TB Vaccine, Enhancing Community Health in Nepal, and the National TB Program, supported by the Global Fund/Save the Children, in his role as District Project Coordinator.

Dipendra holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Tribhuvan University, along with a Community Medicine Auxiliary (CMA) qualification and a Health Assistant (HA) diploma from the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT). He has received extensive training in various areas, including CB-IMNCI, IMAM, TB Modular, Master Training of Trainers (MToT) on Golden Thousand Days, TB Management (e-TB), DHIS-2, M-Health, and life skills.

These qualifications and experiences underscore his expertise and dedication to improving public health outcomes in Nepal.

Sudip Paudel

Sudip Paudel is currently serving as the District Project Coordinator for the Strengthening Health Resilience in TB Program in Nepal, a project funded by the Global Fund through UNDP, and is based in Palpa district. In this role, he works in close coordination with the regional team in Banke, supporting the implementation and monitoring of tuberculosis-related interventions. Previously, Sudip served in the RESPOND II Project in Rolpa, implemented by BNMT Nepal with support from Americares, where he contributed to strengthening community health systems and emergency preparedness. Sudip holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and a Diploma in Health Assistance. Over the past eight years, he has worked extensively across both public health and clinical sectors with reputed organizations including the Health Directorate Office of Lumbini Province, One Heart Worldwide, New ERA, Intrepid Nepal/CMDN/JANTRA, Prakash Awareness Group, and Chitwan Hospital Pvt. Ltd. His broad experience encompasses program coordination, community health mobilization, clinical service delivery, and field-based research, making him a valuable asset in strengthening Nepal’s health systems at both local and provincial levels.

Amit Kumar Mishra

Amit Kumar Mishra is currently serving as a Field Supervisor for the CRITIC Project. He is a certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from CTEVT and brings two years of experience as an Auxiliary Health Worker at Chhipagadh Health Post in Rupandehi. Amit has also contributed his expertise as a Social Mobilizer for the National Tuberculosis Program – Support Program at Kapilvastu Integrated Development Services (KIDS), a project funded by the Global Fund, from March 2019 to July 2024. His dedication to improving healthcare services and community mobilization is reflected in his extensive field experience.

Anchal Thapa

Ms. Anchal Thapa currently serves as Deputy Research Manager at BNMT’s head office in Kathmandu. Over her three-year tenure at BNMT, she has contributed across various roles, initially joining as a Consultant Health Economist for the IMPACT TB project under the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM). Ms. Thapa holds an MSc in Health Economics and Health Policy from the University of Birmingham, UK, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Nobel College (Pokhara University). As a driven and emerging researcher, she is dedicated to advancing her expertise in health economics through designing and conducting economic evaluations alongside diverse implementation research. In 2022, Ms. Thapa was awarded the prestigious Early Career Research Grant by the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (RSTMH), where she led an evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of using drones for transporting sputum samples for TB case detection in Pyuthan. She has significant experience in analyzing patient cost surveys and was instrumental in the data analysis and reporting for Nepal’s first National Tuberculosis Patient Cost Survey. Currently, Ms. Thapa is engaged in the economic evaluation of a randomized controlled trial as part of the ACT South Asia Trial, led by the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) Nepal. This study assesses the effectiveness of Azithromycin and Cefixime versus Azithromycin alone in treating clinically suspected or confirmed uncomplicated typhoid fever in South Asia.

Ashok Thakur

Mr. Ashok Thakur is a dedicated finance professional residing in Dharan Metropolitan City, Ward No. 8, Sunsari District, Koshi Province. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Mahendra Multiple Campus, Dharan.
Since February 1, 2017, Ashok has been serving as the Finance and Admin Officer at Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT-Nepal) in the Regional Office, Biratnagar. In this role, he focuses on financial planning, monitoring, and reporting, playing a crucial part in managing financial and administrative operations in the region. His commitment to ensuring efficiency in financial processes supports the organization’s mission and goals.
With over 14 years of experience in finance, Ashok has previously worked with the Britain Nepal Medical Trust as a Finance Officer. He has also held positions as a Finance and Admin Officer at NNDSWO for seven months and as an Assistant Finance and Admin Officer with IM Swedish Development Partner for two years. His extensive experience contributes significantly to the success and efficiency of the organizations he has worked with.

Asmita Rayamajhi

Asmita Rayamajhi is currently serving as a Data Management Officer for the CRITIC Project, funded by The Union, based at the Cluster Office in Bhairahawa. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and a Diploma in Health Assistant. Throughout her education, Asmita developed a strong interest in fieldwork and gained practical experience, working as a Social Mobilizer in Dolakha District during the Nepal Earthquake under the Nepal Public Health Foundation’s SAHAS Project. She also worked as a Field Researcher for Ipas in Dadeldhura District. During her Public Health studies, Asmita had the opportunity to work in the communities of Okhaldhunga District and with the Health Office in Ramechhap District as part of her curriculum.
After completing her graduation, Asmita expanded her expertise as a Monitoring and Evaluation Officer for the Sexual and Reproductive Health Project with the Public Health Research Society Nepal (PHRSN) in Kathmandu. In October 2022, she joined Kapilvastu Integrated Development Services (KIDS) as a District Program Coordinator for the National Tuberculosis Program, funded by Save the Children and the Global Fund. Asmita’s diverse experience in public health research, TB and program coordination continues to contribute significantly to the success of the projects she is involved in.

Bhumika Sen

Bhumika Sen is a Lab Assistant for the CRITIC project at the Health Office of West, Nawalparasi. She brings 5 years of experience as a Lab Technician and is a registered professional with the Nepal Health Professional Council (NHPC). Her expertise in laboratory operations plays a key role in supporting the success of the CRITIC project and healthcare initiatives in the region.

Rajesh Kumar Harijan

Rajesh Kumar Harijan is a Field Supervisor for the CRITIC project at the Health Office, West, Nawalparasi. With a strong background in health-related projects, Rajesh has served in various roles, including as a Vaccinator at Makar Health Post and as a Social Mobilizer in Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health within Sarawal Rural Municipality, West Nawalparasi. He has also worked as a Social Mobilizer for the Tuberculosis Control Program under Kapilvastu Integrated Development Service (KIDS) in West Nawalparasi, supported by Save the Children and the Global Fund. Additionally, Rajesh is a certified Medical Assistant (CMA), contributing his expertise to the success of the CRITIC project and other community health initiatives.

Bivechana Pandey

Bivechana Pandey is the Project Coordinator for the CRITIC Project at the Cluster Office in Bhairahawa. She is an experienced public health professional with a Master’s degree in Rural Development. During her studies in Public Health, Bivechana had the opportunity to work with communities in Lamjung District and the Health Office of Nuwakot District as part of her curriculum.
She also volunteered with VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) as part of a UK Volunteers program in Jharuwarashi, Lalitpur District. Although her time there was cut short due to the earthquake, she remained for two months before returning home. Following the earthquake, she contributed to the International Medical Corps (IMC) as a Public Health Promoter (Volunteer).
After completing her graduation, Bivechana joined Kapilvastu Integrated Development Services (KIDS) on February 11, 2016, as a District Project Officer for the Women’s Health Project Phase-IV in Nawalparasi District, supported by PSI International. Her passion for Tuberculosis led her to transition to the National Tuberculosis Program at KIDS, a program supported by Save the Children and the Global Fund. Her extensive experience in public health continues to make a significant impact on the projects she leads.

Binita Tharu

Binita Tharu is the Administrative and Logistic Assistant for the CRITIC Project at Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT) in the Regional Office, Nepalgunj, Banke, since September 1, 2024. She holds a Master’s degree in Business Studies from Tribhuvan University. Prior to joining BNMT, Binita worked for five years at Radio Krishnasar FM in Nepalgunj, where she handled administration, finance, accounts, and taxation. Binita has a keen interest in learning new skills across various fields, which contributes to her versatility and dedication in her current role.

Dipendra Barai

Dipendra Barai is an Assistant Radiographer for the CRITIC project. He completed his studies at Kailpal Hospital and College, Nepalgunj, earning a degree in Radiography Technician along with an NHPC license. Dipendra has received on-the-job training at Nepalgunj Medical College and Bheri Zonal Hospital in Banke. He has gained valuable experience in various radiology fields, including X-Ray, CT-Scan, OPG, and MRI, contributing his expertise to the CRITIC project.

Kiran Chaudhary

Kiran Chaudhary is an Assistant Radiographer for the CRITIC project in West Nawalparasi. He completed his studies at Kailpal Hospital and College, Nepalgunj, earning a degree as a Radiography Technician with an NHPC license. Kiran underwent on-the-job training for three months at Nepalgunj Medical College and another three months at Bheri Zonal Hospital, Banke.
He completed a three-year radiography course, which included six months of job training. Kiran has extensive experience in radiology, including X-ray, CT-Scan, OPG, and MRI. Additionally, he worked for six months at City Hospital in Dhangadhi, Kailali, and at the Central Diagnosis Center, Dhangadhi Hospital. His diverse experience in the field enhances his contributions to the CRITIC project.

Ojeeda Nisha

Ojeeda Nisha is a Lab Assistant for the CRITIC project at the Health Office in West Nawalparasi. She has previously worked as a Lab Assistant at Unique Polyclinic in Butwal, Rupandehi. Ojedda holds a Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technician (CMLT) and is licensed by the Nepal Health Professional Council (NHPC). Her expertise in laboratory services supports her role in the CRITIC project, contributing to its success in the region.

Rajkumar Chaudhary

Rajkumar Chaudhary is the Field Supervisor for the ACCELERATE ZERO LEPROSY Project in Banke District, Nepal. In this role, he is responsible for planning, coordinating, and implementing community-based activities for the CHANGE TB project within the district. Rajkumar has extensive experience working at BNMT Nepal, where he served as a Community Health Supervisor and, for a brief period, as the District Program Assistant for the TB REACH Project from 2017 to 2020. Following this, he worked with the IMPACT TB Project from 2021 to 2023.
Rajkumar has received several specialized training programs, including TB Modular, Economic Evaluation of TB Active Case Finding in Nepal, Research Ethics and Informed Consent, Introductory English Course, and Basic Leprosy Training (BLT). He has completed his Intermediate education and has a strong passion for social work, which motivates his commitment to improving public health outcomes in his community.

Ram Prasad Koirala

Mr. Ram Prasad Koirala is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience working with Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT) in various capacities at the regional and district levels. Based in Biratnagar Metropolitan City, Ward No. 11, Morang District, in Koshi Province, he has played a pivotal role in the planning, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and training of both BNMT and government staff for a wide range of projects and programs.
Throughout his career with BNMT, Mr. Koirala has been involved in numerous projects, including the Global Fund-supported TB project in collaboration with Save the Children, the Health Improvement Project, the Rights-Based Health and Community Health and Development Project, the WHO-supported TB REACH Project, the Epidemic Intelligence Project during the COVID-19 pandemic, the NOURISH Project, and the CHANGE TB Project.
He holds a bachelor’s degree and has completed several national and international short courses to enhance his expertise. These include a 16-week course on “Gender and Development” from Swansea University in the UK, a 12-month course on “Bachelor in Health and Development” from Jamkhed, India, and a 2-month training on “Participatory Community Health and Development” from CTEVT, Kathmandu. Additionally, he has attended various specialized trainings, including Basic TB Modular, Refresher TB Modular, VCT, and Research Ethics training during his tenure with BNMT Nepal.
Currently, Mr. Koirala is responsible for implementing the CHANGE TB and NOURISH projects, overseeing planning, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and training relevant personnel based at the Regional Office in Biratnagar for Koshi Province. His extensive experience and dedication continue to make a significant impact on the success of these programs.

Dawa Rinji Sherpa

Dawa Rinji Sherpa serves as a Finance Officer at BNMT Nepal, where he has been contributing since 2015. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management from Himalayan College of Management.

With a strong commitment to professional development, Dawa is passionate about exploring new challenges and expanding his skill set. His interests include reading books, watching movies, participating in training programs, and embracing opportunities for continuous growth. Dawa’s dedication and curiosity drive his valuable contributions to the organization.

Aastha Sharma

Aastha Sharma serves as the District Project Coordinator for the National Tuberculosis Program under GFATM/UNDP at BNMT Nepal, based in Nawalparasi West. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and a Diploma in Ophthalmic Science. She began her career as an Ophthalmic Assistant at Universal College of Medical Sciences, where she performed diagnostic procedures, supported patient care, and contributed to MBBS clinical education. At Indreni Social Development Forum, she supervised the Integrated Rural Community Health Project and coordinated training and implementation with local health units. Aastha also led TB programme activities as District Program Coordinator at Kapilvastu Integrated Development Services in Dang District that focuses on data accuracy, logistics, and district-level coordination. Alongside her public health roles, Aastha has worked as a freelance content writer, producing research-based documents, reports, and technical materials. Her experience spans both clinical and public health environments.

Koshish Raj Gautam

Koshish Raj Gautam is an experienced public health professional with a Master’s degree in public health. He has over 15 years of experience in health systems strengthening, disease surveillance, and project leadership across Nepal.

Currently, Mr. Gautam serves as Project Manager for Lumbini province in the project, ‘Strengthening Health Resilience in TB Program in Nepal’, a Global Fund/UNDP supported initiative implemented by Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT Nepal) as a Sub-Recipient.  In this leadership role, he oversees the planning, coordination, and implementation of tuberculosis interventions in Lumbini province, working closely with government stakeholders and health offices to enhance community-based TB detection, treatment, and resilience. He also oversees ACCELERATE: Accelerating to Zero Transmission of Leprosy in Nepal project and Prevent TB to End TB project. Mr. Gautam is also an accomplished researcher, with several peer-reviewed publications in areas such as adolescent health, menstrual hygiene, maternal mental health, and tobacco control.

Prakriti Bhandari

Prakriti Bhandari is a passionate and dedicated public health professional currently working as the District Project Coordinator for BNMT Nepal in Kapilvastu district. Her work focuses on the implementation of tuberculosis prevention, early case detection, treatment support, and community engagement strategies-ensuring no one is left behind in the fight against TB.

Prakriti began her career as an Active Case Finding- Program Officer at KIDS Nepal, where she gained hands-on experience conducting field-based TB screening and awareness campaigns. Prakriti holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Tribhuvan University, and my academic and fieldwork background has strengthened my ability to design and implement community-driven health interventions.

Prakriti is passionate about strengthening health systems, addressing infectious diseases, and advancing health equity through community engagement and collaboration. She believes in building trust, listening to communities, and using evidence to create lasting change in public health.

Karna Dhoj Chand

Karna Dhoj Chand is the District Project Coordinator for the GF/UNDP funded TB project, based in Bardiya District. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and a Diploma in Health Assistant. My experience includes working with several organizations such as the Occupational Health and Safety Center, KIDS Nepal and Nepal CRS Company (USAID ARH).

Madhav Khanal

Madhav Khanal is a dedicated public health and legal professional with a multidisciplinary background in health systems, community mobilization, and policy advocacy. He currently serves as District Project Coordinator at BNMT Nepal, a role he began on May 1, 2025, where he leads public health initiatives and strengthens district-level health systems.

Before joining BNMT, Madhav worked as a Private Sector Engagement Officer for the USAID Adolescent Reproductive Health Project at Pyuthan, coordinating with government bodies and private health providers to enhance adolescent health services. He also served for over 4 years and 6 months as the District Project Coordinator for the National Tuberculosis Program in Dang district through KIDS Nepal, where he was instrumental in implementing TB control strategies, strengthening surveillance, and supporting the COVID-19 response under the Health Office Dang.

Madhav is a certified Tuberculosis Trainer, having received Training of Trainers (TOT) in e-TB and TB Management provided by PHD Lumbini province, and has played a key role in building local capacity across Lumbini Province.

He holds a Master’s degree in Sociology, a Bachelor of Public Health (BPH), and a Bachelor’s degree in Law, and is a licensed Advocate and Public Health professional. He has authored peer-reviewed research on institutional delivery and dengue prevention in Nepal. His strengths lie in multisectoral coordination, training facilitation, and grassroots health advocacy.

Ram Bahadur Gharti

Ram Bahadur Gharti is a dynamic public health professional with over eight years’ experience in TB, emergency response, nutrition, and health program management across various levels in Nepal. He is currently serving as the District Project Coordinator at BNMT Nepal.

Previously, he worked in varous roles such as District Program Coordinator at Kapilvastu Integrated Development Services (KIDS) Rolpa, CICT Facilitator at Health Office Banke, Imaging Technologist for the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Lecturer at different college, Nutrition for Social Behaviour Change Communication Officer (NSBCCO) at District SUAAHARA Bajura/NTAG , and Training Officer at SUAAHARA/NTAG.

Ram Bahadur is adept at program planning, implementation, and monitoring, utilizing tools such as DHIS2, NTPMIS, and eLMIS, and management techniques to drive evidence-based initiatives. He excels in capacity building, stakeholder coordination, and data analysis (Excel, SPSS).

Passionate about improving healthcare access and livelihoods, he has a deep understanding of implementing successful community-based public health programs. He is responsible for ensuring field implementation, establishing strong coordination with project partners, government authorities, and health offices.

Ram Bahadur holds a Master’s degree in Public Health and a Bachelor of Science in Imaging Technology.

Shikhar Gautam

Shikhar Gautam is currently serving as the District Project Coordinator (DPC) for Pyuthan District under the Tuberculosis Program – SR Implementation at Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Purbanchal University and brings over two years of experience in the public health sector.

Prior to joining BNMT, he worked with organizations such as the Holistic Development Center and the Public Health Research Development Center, where he gained valuable experience in community-based health programs, data collection and analysis, and program implementation.
Shikhar is currently involved in strengthening tuberculosis prevention and control activities at the district level through his role at BNMT. He plays a key role in coordination, supportive supervision, reporting, and collaboration with local government bodies and health facilities.
He is proficient in digital data collection tools such as KoboToolbox and LogAlto, as well as in DHIS2 and Microsoft Excel for reporting and data management. He has participated in various technical trainings including DHIS2, First Aid, HFOMC facilitation, and TB survey data collection.

With a strong commitment to public health and a results-oriented approach, Shikhar continues to contribute to improving health outcomes in Pyuthan district through the TB program.

Swastika Budhathoki

Swastika Budhathoki is the District Project Coordinator at Banke District for the Global Fund Project, funded by The Global Fund through UNDP. She is a passionate public health advocate with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health. Her professional journey includes serving as a District Program Coordinator at Kapilbastu for Integrated Development Services (KIDS), where she played a key role in the execution of various TB interventions and preventive initiatives. Her commitment to public health extends to her impactful volunteer and internship experiences at the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD) under the Department of Health Services (DoHS), with firsthand exposure to disease control and public health surveillance. Notably, she has been the recipient of the prestigious NHRC Undergraduate Grant in 2023, for public health research.

Nazia Kaushar

Nazia Kaushar is the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer in BNMT Nepal at Provincial Office, Surkhet under Global Fund/UNDP funded Project, ‘Strengthening Health Resilience in TB program in Nepal’ since May 2025. A public health graduate, her goal is to leverage her skills and knowledge contributing to building a resilient and inclusive community. Coming from a minority, she is very much interested to work for health and well-being of marginalized and hard to reach communities.

She began her career in public health working as a Field Researcher in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) based research where she gained firsthand experience working with vulnerable populations and understanding the complexities of community health needs. She then joined BNMT Nepal as a Data Entry Assistant, where she was closely involved to interact with tuberculosis patients and witness the immense burden of TB in Nepal, especially among disadvantaged and marginalized groups. She has also worked as Adolescent Reproductive Health and Gender Equality and Social Inclusiveness officer in USAID ARH project. These experiences deeply have moved her and sparked a personal and professional commitment to work passionately for TB-affected communities, adolescents, reproductive health, focusing on reducing stigma, improving access to care, and advocating for equity in the health system.

Shamman Japrel

Shamman Japrel is the District Project Coordinator for the Global Fund/UNDP funded Project, ‘Strengthening Health Resilience in TB program in Nepal’. Based in Kalikot district of Karnali Province, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and a Master’s in Public Administration. Shamman has extensive experience of working in tuberculosis programs, public health research, and field coordination, in organizations such as Save the Children, KIDS, and the National Youth Council. He has also contributed to research as a Principal Investigator for a study funded by the Nepal Health Research Council and held key roles during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kathmandu. His commitment to health equity and community engagement continues to shape his impactful work across Nepal.

Nirmala Khatri

Nirmala Khatri is the finance and Administration Officer of BNMT Nepal, positioned in provincial office, Surkhet. She has been working under the Global Fund/UNDP funded Project, ‘Strengthening Health Resilience in TB program in Nepal’ since May, 2025. Nirmala has more than eleven years’ of working in several I/NGOs with expertise in financial planning, implementation, organization as well as program implementation. She previously worked at Operation Officer in DAI/USAID biodiversity, Karnali landscape office. Nirmala holds a master degree from Mahendra multiple Campus, Nepalgunj, Tribhuwan University with specialization in finance. She finds passion in working for the poor and marginalized communities. She confidently handled financial matter and manage work very well under pressure. She is fond of adventures.

Aashish Shrestha

Aashish Shrestha is the District Project Coordinator for BNMT Nepal based in Surkhet district, working under the Global Fund/UNDP funded Project, ‘Strengthening Health Resilience in TB program in Nepal’ since May 2025. A dedicated public health professional, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health (BPH) and brings hands-on experience from various facets of the health sector.

Aashish began his career in public health during the COVID-19 pandemic, taking on the critical role of CICT Facilitator at the Health Office, Dadeldhura. His commitment to community health deepened through his involvement in tuberculosis (TB) programs under the Global Fund TB program, implemented by Save the Children (PR) and Kapilvastu Integrated Development Services [KIDS (SR)], where he contributed for a total of 14 months.

With a strong foundation in field-based health coordination and program implementation, Aashish continues to make a meaningful impact in Nepal’s public health landscape, particularly in areas of infectious disease control and Nutrition.

Prayash Lamsal

Prayash Lamsal is the District Project Coordinator for Global Fund/UNDP funded Project, ‘Strengthening Health Resilience in TB program in Nepal’ based in Salyan district. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and has gained valuable community health experience during his academic fieldwork in Gulmi and Nuwakot districts. Prayash has worked as a field researcher with NHRC, HERD International, and Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology, focusing on both communicable and non-communicable diseases. He has held key program roles with several organizations, including HURENDEC Nepal (in partnership with World Vision), Aasaman Nepal (WHH/BMZ), AMDA Nepal (AMDA Minds), and Geruwa Banke (PSI Nepal). He also contributed to earthquake response in Ramechhap and COVID-19 response in Banke. Until December 31, 2024, he served as District Project Coordinator for the TB Program with KIDS in Salyan, funded by the Global Fund through Save the Children. Prayash’s extensive experience and dedication to public health continue to drive meaningful impact at the community level.

Rabindra Karki

Rabindra Karki is the District Project Coordinator for Birat Nepal Medical Trust (BNMT Nepal) in Dailekh District, working under the Global Fund/UNDP-funded project Strengthening Health Resilience in TB Program in Nepal since May 2025. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and began his public health career during the COVID-19 pandemic, coordinating control activities, sample collection, awareness campaigns, and inter-agency collaboration at Aathbis Municipality, Dailekh. He also worked with Global Peace Foundation in Bhaktapur, leading school-based health programs focused on hygiene, nutrition, and mental health. Rabindra served as a TB-Free Palika Coordinator in Aathbis Municipality, where he led TB control efforts, micro-planning, and stakeholder coordination across all government levels. His field-based experience extends to remote health coordination, waterborne disease control, and community health promotion, reflecting his strong commitment to improving public health outcomes.

Akhilesh Kumar Jha

Akhilesh Kumar Jha is a Public Health Professional with over 10 years of experience in reproductive health, tuberculosis control, adolescent sexual and reproductive health, and community health programs. He holds a bachelor degree in Public Health and A gold medalist in Master of Public Health (Health Service Management) from Purbanchal University, he has led diverse projects in planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and stakeholder coordination. Akhilesh has worked with leading national and international organizations including The Britain Nepal Medical Trust, BNMT Nepal, Ipas Nepal, and Bagmati Welfare Society Nepal, and has contributed to multiple projects and research studies.

He has served for BNMT Nepal for nearly five years in the past in projects like TB Reach Wave II, IMPACT TB II, Target TB, ASCOT and TB Recovery. And is currently working as a Project Coordinator in CRITIC project in Rupendehi and Nawalparasi district.

He is committed to advancing public health services and promoting gender equality, social inclusion, and community health development in Nepal and beyond.