Kathmandu: The Centre for Self-help Development (CSD) celebrated its 35th anniversary on 28 Shrawan 2083 (August 13, 2026), recognizing outstanding micro-entrepreneurs and institutions for their contributions to entrepreneurship development and socio-economic transformation.
The anniversary programme was formally inaugurated by former Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank, Dipendra Bahadur Chhetry, in the presence of Rajan Bikram Thapa, Executive Director of the Microfinance Institutions Supervision Department of Nepal Rastra Bank, and Ram Bahadur Yadav, Chairperson of the Nepal Microfinance Bankers’ Association. The programme was chaired by CSD Chairperson Shankar Man Shrestha.
During the programme, CSD Chairperson Shrestha reflected on the organization’s 35-year journey and its contribution to the development of the microfinance sector and the socio-economic advancement of underserved communities. He also highlighted CSD’s continued efforts toward strengthening microfinance, entrepreneurship and inclusive development.
The anniversary celebration featured an audio-visual presentation showcasing CSD’s journey, followed by an award ceremony recognizing achievements in micro-entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship development.
Three women entrepreneurs honored
CSD honored three women microfinance members with the Outstanding Micro-Entrepreneur Member Award for their notable entrepreneurial achievements.
The award recipients were Lila Kumari Tharu of Nawaprativa Savings and Credit Cooperative Society Ltd., Nawalparasi; Sharmila Thebe of Sahara Nepal Savings and Credit Cooperative Society Ltd., Jhapa; and Sunita Tharu of Unique Nepal Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Ltd., Banke.
The recognition highlighted the role of microfinance in helping individuals establish and expand businesses, generate income and improve livelihoods. The achievements of the awardees also demonstrated how microfinance can contribute beyond access to credit by supporting entrepreneurship and economic empowerment at the grassroots level.
The award recipients shared their experiences during the programme and expressed appreciation for the recognition. Their experiences highlighted the opportunities created through microfinance and their efforts to convert financial support into productive economic activities.
Jeevan Bikas receives Entrepreneurship Development Award
CSD also presented the Entrepreneurship Development Award to Jeevan Bikas Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Ltd., Morang, for its contribution to promoting and nurturing entrepreneurship among microfinance members.
The institutional award recognized the role of microfinance institutions in encouraging entrepreneurial activities and supporting members in developing sustainable enterprises.
Proceedings of Fifth National Microfinance Member Summit released
Another highlight of the anniversary programme was the release of the Proceedings of the Fifth National Microfinance Member Summit.
The publication was released during the ceremony, followed by remarks on the proceedings from Bharat Sah, Chief Executive Officer of Chameli Savings and Credit Cooperative Society Ltd.
The programme also featured remarks from distinguished guests, including Ram Bahadur Yadav and Rajan Bikram Thapa, who shared their perspectives on the microfinance sector. Chief Guest Dipendra Bahadur Chhetry also addressed the gathering.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dambar Bahadur Shah, Member of the Executive Committee of CSD, followed by closing remarks from CSD Chairperson Shankar Man Shrestha.
Nearly 100 dignitaries, microfinance sector representatives, award recipients, partner organizations, well-wishers and other stakeholders attended the anniversary celebration.
The 35th anniversary served as an occasion to commemorate CSD’s three-and-a-half-decade journey while recognizing the achievements of microfinance members and institutions contributing to entrepreneurship development and socio-economic transformation.
प्रतिक्रिया दिनुहोस्