Dr. Mahesh Kumar Maskey |  Dr. Suniti Acharya  |    Dr. Sanu Maiyan Dali  |  Dr. Ramesh Kant Adhikari   |Dr. Aruna Uprety  | Dr. Swaraj Rajbhandari  | Dr. Sharad Raj Onta  | Dr. Gehenath Baral  |  Dr. Sudha Sharma   | Dr. Kusum Thapa  |Dr. Sunil Raja Manandhar  | Dr. Needa Shrestha 

Dr. Swaraj Rajbhandari

Dr. Swaraj Rajbhandari, a renowned obstetrician-gynecologist and public health expert with over 40 years of experience in maternal, neonatal, and reproductive health. Currently, she serves as a Senior Consultant OB/GYN at Helios Clinic and SOWA Healthcare, Nepal, and as the Senior MNCH (Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Health) Advisor at One Heart World Wide, Nepal and Midwifery Society of Nepal. Additionally, she is the Director of Maternal and Neonatal Health at Health and Development Solutions (HEADS). Dr. Rajbhandari holds an MBBS degree from Dow Medical College, Pakistan, a Master of Public Health specializing in Population and Family Health from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and a Fellowship from the Royal Thai College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Dr. Rajbhandari has played a pivotal role in advancing maternal health globally. Her work spans over 15 countries, where she has implemented maternal and reproductive health programs, developed national health policies, and trained thousands of healthcare professionals. She is recognized for introducing the Gentle Birth Method and tele-health services in Nepal, improving access to quality healthcare in underserved areas. Her expertise extends to developing clinical guidelines, competency-based training modules, and leading emergency obstetric and family planning initiatives. As a passionate advocate for women’s health, she has received numerous awards, including the NESOG Lifetime Achievement Award and the FIGO Women’s Award for her contributions.

Major Publications

  1. “Medical Education for Safe Abortion Services in Nepal” – Cambridge University Press
  2. “The Logarithmic Spiral of Networks of Care for Expectant Families of Rural Nepal” – Health Systems & Reform
  3. “On-Site Clinical Mentoring as Maternal and Newborn Quality Improvement Method” – BMC Nursing
  4. “Menopausal Health Status of the Nepalese Women: A Pilot Study” – JNMA
  5. “Postpartum Hemorrhage in Nepal: A Program Assessment” – BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth
  6. “Relation of Ethnicity and Menopausal Symptoms in Nepal” – Journal of South Asian Federation of Menopause Society
  7. “Expanding Uterotonic Protection Following Childbirth Through Community-Based Distribution of Misoprostol” – International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
  8. “Diagnostic Dilemma of an Undiagnosed Pelvic Mass in a Young Girl” – JNMA
  9. “Micronutrients: Its Role in Intrauterine Growth Restrictions” – N J Obstetrics and Gynecology
  10. “Puerperal Inversion of Uterus in Nepal: Case Reports and Review of the Literature” – Asia Oceania Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
  11.  “Maternal Morbidities Among Women Admitted for Delivery at a Public Hospital in Kathmandu” – Journal of Nepal Medical Association
  12.  “Trophoblastic Disease in Maternity Hospital” – NESOG International Conference Souvenir
  13.  “Ectopic Pregnancy: Five Years’ Experience in Maternity Hospital” – NESOG International Conference Souvenir
  14.  “Hospital Guidelines for Doctors in Maternity Hospital” – First Edition (1988).

Dr.Sanu Maiyan Dali

Dr Sanu Maiayan DaliDr. Sanu Maiyan Dali is a distinguished obstetrician and gynecologist, currently serving as the Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist at Ganesh Man Singh Memorial Hospital and Research Center, Mahalaxmisthan, Nepal. With a career spanning decades, she has made transformative contributions to maternal, child, and neonatal health, both nationally and internationally. A graduate of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, she holds an MBBS and an MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Dr. Dali has held numerous prestigious roles, including Professor and Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH), Director of Postgraduate Programs, and Project Leader in Human Reproduction Research. Her leadership extended to being the Chairperson of the Paropakar Maternity Hospital, and she has significantly contributed to healthcare policy as a member of Nepal’s Health Research Council.

As a prolific researcher and author, Dr. Dali has published extensively on maternal and neonatal health, reproductive health strategies, and micronutrient deficiencies, with her work influencing public health programs and policies. She has also contributed to national medical guidelines and textbooks, further shaping healthcare education and practice in Nepal. Her exceptional contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the FRCOG Fellowship, the FIGO Award for women’s health, and the UNICEF Award for her outstanding service to women and children in Nepal. She remains an active leader in professional organizations such as NESOG and PESON, continuing to advocate for safe motherhood and improved healthcare systems. Dr. Sanu Maiya Dalli has made significant contributions to maternal and neonatal health, including the development of community-based safe motherhood education programs and conducted research on pregnancy outcomes and neonatal care.

Through her ongoing work at Ganesh Man Singh Memorial Hospital, Dr. Dali’s enduring commitment to advancing women's health and empowering communities continues to leave a lasting impact on Nepal’s healthcare landscape

Major Publications

  1. Introduction of Laparoscopic Tubal Sterilization in Nepal's Family Planning Program.
  2. Making Pregnancy Safer in South East Asia.
  3. Strategy on Maternal Mortality Reduction and Making Pregnancy Safer.
  4. Clinical Review of Eclampsia in Maternal Hospital in Nepal.
  5. Role of Traditional Birth Attendants in Safe Motherhood.
  6. Safe Motherhood Initiative: Educating Mothers-in-law.
  7. Microsurgery in Gynecology: Experiences at TUTH.
  8. Pregnancy Outcome in Relation to Height of Nepalese Women.
  9. Double-Blind Trial of Vitamin A Supplementation in Pregnancy-Related Mortality.
  10. Biparietal Diameter of Nepalese Fetus in Different Gestational Periods.
  11. Adolescent Sexuality and Its Public Health Implications.
  12. Puerperal Inversion of the Uterus: Case Reports.
  13. Educating Mothers-in-law for Intra-Conceptional Care.
  14. Role of Hormones in Female Sub-Fertility.
  15. Vaginal Cytology for Pregnancy Outcome Prediction.
  16. Perinatal Death Audit in a Medical College.
  17. Impact of Maternal Vitamin A Supplementation on Morbidity.
  18. Nutrition and Micronutrients in Pregnancy and Fetal Outcomes.
  19. Community-Based Maternal Death Audit Techniques.

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Dr. Ramesh Kant Adhikari

Profile picture of Dr. Ramesh Kant AdhikariDr. Ramesh Kant Adhikari is a distinguished medical professional with a rich career spanning over three decades in pediatrics and medical education. He earned his MD in Pediatrics from the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, in 1979. Dr. Adhikari retired in 2012 as a Professor in Child Health from the Institute of Medicine (IoM) after 33 years of dedicated service.

His roles at IoM included serving as the Campus Chief of Maharajgunj Medical Campus and ultimately as the Dean of the Institute. Beyond his academic contributions, Dr. Adhikari has been deeply involved in the fields of nutrition, research ethics, and medical education. He played a significant role in the preparation of the Nepal Multi-Sector Nutrition Plan 2013 and served as a technical member of the High-Level Food Security and Nutrition Steering Committee of the National Planning Commission. His research has significantly contributed to understanding the role of zinc in childhood diarrhea, the impact of Vitamin A on child survival, and optimal child feeding practices. Currently, Dr. Adhikari continues his service to the medical community in honorary capacities at the Nepal Health Research Council, Nepal Medical Council, and National Immunization Advisory Committee. He is the Chair of the Ethical Review Board at the Nepal Health Research Council. Residing in Khumaltar, Lalitpur, Dr. Adhikari remains a pivotal figure in maternal and child health, influencing policies and practices through his extensive expertise and experience.

Publications:

  1. Effectiveness and Efficacy of Zinc for the Treatment of Acute Diarrhea in Young Children
  2. Newborn survival in Nepal: a decade of change and future implications
  3. Hypoxemia in children with pneumonia and its clinical predictors
  4. Stunting in Nepal: looking back, looking ahead
  5. A review of the maternal iron and folic acid supplementation programme in Nepal: Achievements and challenges
  6. Evaluating preschool linear growth velocities: an interim reference illustrated in Nepal
  7. Long-term impact of community-based participatory women’s groups on child and maternal mortality and child disability: follow-up of a cluster randomised trial in rural Nepal.

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Dr. Sudha Sharma

Profile picture of Dr Sudha SharmaDr. Sudha Sharma is a distinguished public health physician, obstetrician, and gynecologist with an impressive career spanning over 35 years. She has dedicated her life to improving maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health across diverse regions, including South Asia, Eastern Africa, and the United Kingdom. Dr. Sharma's extensive expertise and unwavering commitment have made significant contributions to the field of public health, particularly in maternal health.

Throughout her career, Dr. Sharma has held numerous key positions, including serving as the Secretary at Nepal's Ministry of Health and Population. In this role, she played a pivotal part in the development of Nepal’s Health Sector Program Implementation Plan (NHSP-II), a comprehensive framework aimed at enhancing the country's health sector. Her leadership in formulating and implementing vital maternal health policies, such as the Safe Motherhood Program and various reproductive health strategies, has profoundly influenced Nepal's healthcare landscape.

One of Dr. Sharma's remarkable achievements includes the establishment of a midwife-led birthing center and the creation of national training programs for skilled birth attendants. These initiatives have significantly improved maternal care by ensuring that pregnant women have access to skilled and compassionate care during childbirth, which is crucial in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates.

Dr. Sharma's expertise extended beyond Nepal when she led maternal health initiatives for UNICEF in Tanzania. There, she focused on expanding emergency obstetric care, which played a crucial role in saving countless lives and improving health outcomes for mothers and newborns.Her contributions to maternal health are widely recognized internationally, and she has authored several influential publications that have added valuable insights to the global discourse on maternal and child health.

Dr. Sharma's career is a testament to her dedication to public health and her passion for advancing maternal health care. Her work continues to inspire and influence policies and practices in maternal and child health globally.

Publications:

  1. A Study of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy in Maternity Hospital (Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research, Vol. 24 Supplement No 3. Pp 69. 1998)
  2. Neonatal Health and Survival in Zanzibar; Stock-taking review and recommendations
  3. Effects of Abortion Legalization in Nepal (PLoS ONE 8(5): e64775. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone)
  4. Models for improving the quality of care around the time of birth: An overview of three (Submitted for publication)
  5. Post-legalization challenge: minimizing complications of abortion (Kathmandu University Medical Journal, 2(2): 131-136, 2003)
  6. Legalization of abortion in Nepal: the way forward (Kathmandu University Medical Journal, 2(1): 1-5, 2004)
  7. Measuring life skills of adolescents in a secondary school of Kathmandu: an experience (Kathmandu University Medical Journal, 1(3): 170-176, 2002)
  8. Preventing Mother-to-child Transmission of HIV (Journal of Nepal Medical Association, 42(150): 380-382, 2003)
  9. Reproductive rights of Nepalese women: current status and future directions (Kathmandu University Medical Journal, 2(1): 52-54, 2004)
  10. Role of Audit in Obstetrics and other specialties (Journal of Nepal Medical Association, 39(135): I-II, 2000)
  11. Adolescent Health Care: The Challenge and the Future (Tribhuwan University Teaching Hospital Bulletin, July 2000)

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Dr Suniti Acharya

Dr Suniti AcharyaDr. Suniti Acharya is a distinguished medical professional and public health expert with an extensive career spanning over five decades, focusing on maternal and child health. She holds an MBBS degree from Agra, India, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Child Health from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of London. Further enhancing her expertise, she completed a Master of Public Health at Tulane University, New Orleans, USA, and has attended numerous short courses in public administration, leadership development, nutrition, health policy, and health systems research.

Dr. Acharya began her career in clinical pediatrics at Kanti Children’s Hospital and the neonatal unit at Maternity Hospital in Nepal. Since 1980, she has been a pivotal figure in public health, managing large-scale national programs such as immunization, epidemiology, maternal and child health, and reproductive health. As the Chief of Health Policy, Health Planning, and Foreign Aid Division, she played a crucial role in formulating Nepal's first national health policy in 1991.

Her tenure at the World Health Organization (WHO) South East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) began in 1993, where she served as the Regional Advisor in Maternal, Child, and Reproductive Health. She provided technical support to countries across South East Asia, aiding in the development and implementation of maternal and child health strategies. Dr. Acharya later became the WHO Country Representative in Bangladesh, where she spearheaded initiatives like immunization programs, including polio eradication, and supported the government's comprehensive health sector programs.

Post-retirement, Dr. Acharya continued to contribute as a temporary advisor to WHO, a Polio Commissioner, and a member of the Regional Commission on Polio Eradication for South East Asia. Her leadership was instrumental in declaring the region polio-free in 2014.

Returning to Nepal in 2006, Dr. Acharya founded the Center for Health Policy Research and Dialogue, focusing on health policy research and advisory services. She has been a key figure in policy formulation, including her role as a member of the High-Level Policy Advisory Group and Steering Committee for updating Nepal's National Health Policy in 2071. Her pioneering study on equity in health in Nepal has been widely recognized and utilized.

Dr. Acharya’s research contributions are extensive, including multiple country case studies and assessments in collaboration with international organizations. Her work has significantly impacted maternal and child health policies and practices, establishing her as a leading authority in the field.

Publications:

  1. Acharya, S. Study on Equity in Health in Nepal, Center for Health Policy Research and Dialogue, July 2008.
  2. Acharya, S. Progress In Achieving MDGs In Child Health In Nepal: Remaining Challenges, 5th Congress of Paediatric Association of SAARC Countries and XIVth Congress of NEPAS, March 27-29, 2008.
  3. Acharya, S. Review of Child Health Policies, Programmes, and Trends in Child Mortality and Nutritional Status in Nepal, Journal of Nepal Paediatric Society, Volume 26, Issue 1, Jan-June 2007.
  4. Acharya, S. Antenatal Care - How Effective it is to Promote Maternal and Neonatal Health, International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Volume 50, Supplement No.2, Page S35, October 1995.
  5. Acharya, S. Breast Feeding: A Nepalese Perspective, Report of a Seminar on Breast Feeding Practices, CEDA, HMG/Nepal, Ministry of Health, September 1990.
  6. Acharya, S. Women and Health, Proceedings of Seminar: Role of Women in the Main Stream of National Development, Women Services Coordination Committee, Bhrikuti Mandap, 1982.
  7. Acharya, S. Nutrition in Primary Health Care, Report of Seminar on Management of Malnourished Cases, Nutrition Cell, Department of Health Services, 1982.
  8. Acharya, S. Promotion and Support of Appropriate and Timely Weaning Practices with the Use of Local Resources, Proceedings of Precongress Workshop, Nepal Paediatric Society, December 1981.
  9. Acharya, S. Health for All by 2000 in the Context of the Deprived and Disabled Child, Proceedings of Symposium on Development of Paediatric Services in Nepal, December 1981.
  10.  Acharya, S. Malnutrition and Diarrhoeal Disease, Journal of Nepal Medical Association, 1979, (1) 79-84.
  11. Acharya, S. Care of Newborn - Priority in Basic Health Services, Journal of Nepal Medical Association, 1977, 15 (2) 8-24.
  12.  Acharya, S. Phototherapy in the Treatment of Jaundice in Newborns, Journal of Nepal Medical Association.

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Dr Mahesh Kumar Maskey

Dr Mahesh Kumar MaskeyDr. Mahesh K. Maskey is a prominent public health professional with a distinguished career in health policy, research, and international diplomacy. He currently holds the position of Founding Chair and Executive Chief of the Nepal Public Health Foundation in Kathmandu, Nepal. In this role, he leads various initiatives aimed at improving public health standards in the country, with a particular focus on maternal and child health.

Dr. Maskey has made significant contributions to maternal and child health through his development of the Motherhood Method, a comprehensive framework for measuring maternal, perinatal, neonatal, and infant mortality in developing countries. This innovative method, developed as part of his doctoral research on "Preventable Factors of Perinatal Mortality in Nepal," has been pivotal in identifying preventable factors and improving health outcomes for mothers and children.

In addition to his academic contributions, Dr. Maskey has been involved in several national and international research studies. He served as the Principal Investigator for the National Study on the Burden of Disease in Nepal, which provided critical insights into health challenges in the country. His research on overcoming barriers for skilled birth attendants, funded by WHO, and his role as Co-Principal Investigator in studies on stunting reduction and under-five mortality reduction, highlight his ongoing commitment to advancing maternal and child health in Nepal. These efforts have positioned Dr. Maskey as a key figure in shaping health policies and programs that improve the lives of women and children in Nepal and beyond.

Publications

  1. Maskey MK, Baral KP, Shah R, Shrestha BD, Lang J, Rothman KJ. Field test results of the motherhood method to measure maternal mortality. Indian Journal of Medical Research, January 2011.
  2. [with Dhungana R. et al.] Prevalence pattern and determinants of chronic disease multimorbidity in Nepal: secondary analysis of a national survey. BMJ Open. 2021. 11(7). E047665.
  3. [with Kaitlin Conway et al.] Drivers of Stunting Reduction in Nepal: A Country Case Study. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Volume 112, Issue Supplement_2, September 2020, Pages 844S–859S.
  4. [with Junxiang Wei et al.] Changes in patterns of the double burden of undernutrition and overnutrition in Nepal over time. Obes Rev 2019 Sep;20(9):1321-1334. doi: 10.1111/obr.12883. Epub 2019 Jul 19.
  5. [with Shah, R et al.] Barriers and facilitators to institutional delivery in rural areas of Chitwan district, Nepal: a qualitative study. Reprod Health, 15(1), 110. doi:10.1186/s12978-018-0553-0, 2015.
  6. [with Shah, R et al.] Factors affecting institutional delivery in rural Chitwan district of Nepal: a community-based cross-sectional study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth, 15, 27. doi:10.1186/s12884-015-0454-y, 2015.
  7. [with Bhandari et al.] A cluster randomized implementation trial to measure the effectiveness of an intervention package aiming to increase the utilization of skilled birth attendants by women for childbirth: study protocol. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth, 14, 109. doi:10.1186/1471-2393-14- 109, 2014.
  8. [with Prem Dhillon et al.] Status of epidemiology in the WHO South-East Asia region: burden of disease, determinants of health and epidemiological research, workforce and training capacity, International Journal of Epidemiology, 2012;1–14 doi:10.1093/ije/dys046.
  9. [with Madhu Ghimire et al.] Community-based interventions for diarrhoeal diseases and acute respiratory infections in Nepal. Bull World Health Organ 2010 Mar;88(3):216-21. doi:10.2471/BLT.09.065649.
  10. [with Dixit SM et al.] Molecular screening of major bacterial enteropathogens in human stool samples from diarrhoeal outbreak sites. Journal of Nepal Health Research Council 9(2):181-5, October 2011.
  11. Maskey MK. Health Sciences Research in Medical Education. Journal of Nepal Health Research Council, 2007.

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Dr Gehenath Baral

Dr Gehenath BaralProf. Dr. Gehanath Baral is a distinguished academician and clinician, currently serving as a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Kathmandu University and a Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Nobel Medical College Teaching Hospital, Biratnagar, Nepal. With a robust career spanning over three decades, Dr. Baral has significantly contributed to the field of obstetrics and gynecology in Nepal and internationally.

Currently, he holds several prominent positions, including Chairman of the Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC) from 2021 to 2025, where he oversees health research initiatives and policies aimed at improving public health outcomes in Nepal. Dr. Baral also serves as the Coordinator for the Health Science Cluster under the University Grant Commission (UGC), a role he has held since 2019. In this capacity, he has been instrumental in shaping health science education and research frameworks in the country.

In 2024, Dr. Baral assumed the role of Program Coordinator for the Master in Medical Research at Kathmandu University, further solidifying his dedication to advancing medical research and training the next generation of healthcare professionals. His leadership as the President of the Gynecological Oncology Society of Nepal (GOSON) underscores his commitment to improving gynecological oncology care and research.Dr. Baral's editorial contributions are equally noteworthy. He served as the Chief Editor of the Nepal Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (NJOG) from 2016 to 2023 and is currently a Review Editor for Frontiers in Reproductive Health. These roles highlight his influence in academic publishing and his efforts to disseminate critical research findings in reproductive health.

Throughout his career, Dr. Baral has been actively involved in various research and clinical projects, particularly those related to maternal and child health. His work has focused on addressing critical issues such as prolapse surgery, gender- based violence, gynecological cancer prevention and treatment, reproductive and sexual health, and ethical research practices. His expertise as a Master Trainer in these areas has led to significant improvements in healthcare delivery and training across Nepal.Dr. Baral's academic journey includes a Fellowship in Gynecologic Oncology from Asan Medical Center in Seoul, Korea, and advanced degrees in gynecology and obstetrics from Tribhuvan University, Nepal. His dedication to continuous learning is evident from his additional qualifications, including diplomas in clinical research and business administration from institutions in Canada.

With a career characterized by leadership, research excellence, and a commitment to improving maternal and child health, Prof. Dr. Gehanath Baral remains a pivotal figure in Nepal's medical landscape, inspiring future generations of healthcare professionals and researchers.

Publications

  1. Shrestha DB, Budhathoki P, Karki P, Jha P, Mainali G, Dangal G, Baral G, Shrestha M, Gyawali P. Vesico-vaginal fistula in females in 2010–2020: a systemic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Sci.
  2. Shrestha DB, Budhathoki P, Malbul K, Katwal S, Jha SK, Prajapati R, Srivastava A, Dangal G, Baral G. Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcome of Pregnancy-induced Hypertension in Nepal: A Meta-Analysis of Prevalence Studies. Journal of Nepal Health Research Council.
  3. Paudel S, Chalise A, Dangal G, Bhandari TR, Baral G. Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Countries of Different Economy: A Systematic Review. Nep J Obstet Gynaecol.
  4. Shedain PR, Baral G, Maharjan B. Hepatitis B infection among indigenous people in Nepal: looking through an equity lens. Nep J Obstet Gynaecol.
  5. Baral G. Managing cervical cancer in Nepal: Need of consensual guideline. Nep J Obstet Gynaecol.
  6. Baral G. Neural tube defects: An Obstetrician’s concern. Nep J Obstet Gynecol.
  7. Baral G. Changing scenario during COVID-19 pandemic. Nepal Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology. 2020 Jan.
  8. Baral G. Contextual challenges in research ethics and quality of research. Nep J Obstet Gynecol. 2020;15(31):6-7.
  9. Shrestha P, Baral G, Bhansakarya R, Chaudhary AN. “Sack of marble” appearance in mature cystic teratoma: an unusual finding. Nep J Obstet Gynecol.
  10. Gurung M, Baral G. Recurrent Puerperal Uterine Inversion. Nep J Obstet Gynecol.
  11. Baral G, Shrestha O, Baral RS. Thrombotic Pathology in Placenta of COVID-Positive Pregnancy. J Nepal Health Res Counc.

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Dr. Sunil Raja Manandhar

Dr. Sunil Raja ManandharProf. Dr. Sunil Raja Manandhar is an esteemed pediatrician and neonatologist with over 20 years of experience, currently serving as the Professor and Head of the Neonatal Unit and Pediatrics Department at Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital (KMCTH) in Nepal. He is also a Senior Consultant Neonatologist, overseeing the 40-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at KMCTH, where he manages complex neonatal conditions and pioneers advanced care techniques such as point-of-care echocardiography and non-invasive respiratory support like Bubble CPAP.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Manandhar is a respected educator and researcher. He serves as a Preceptor for the MD Pediatrics and DM Neonatology programs at Kathmandu University, mentoring postgraduate and doctoral students. As the Secretary of Mother and Infant Research Activities (MIRA), he leads initiatives focused on improving maternal and neonatal health, including community-based newborn care programs and newborn screening. His research has significantly contributed to understanding neonatal mortality, premature births, and birth asphyxia in Nepal.

Dr. Sunil Raja Manandhar’s remarkable contributions to neonatal health, medical education, and research have made him a respected leader in pediatrics and neonatology in Nepal. His relentless dedication to improving neonatal outcomes has established new benchmarks in maternal and child health care in the country.

Dr. Manandhar has held key leadership roles in national and international organizations, including serving as the Senior Vice-President of the Perinatal Society of Nepal (PESON) and as the Executive Editor of the Journal of Perinatal Society of Nepal. His contributions to neonatal and maternal health research, particularly in neonatal mortality, pediatric injuries, and congenital heart diseases, have shaped healthcare practices both in Nepal and internationally.

Publications

  1. Causes of Stillbirths and Neonatal Deaths in Dhanusha District – Kathmandu University Medical Journal (2010).
  2. Outcome of Surfactant Replacement Therapy in Preterm Babies – Birat Journal of Health Sciences (2018).
  3. Role of Injectable Paracetamol for PDA Closure in Preterm Neonates – Journal of Perinatal Society of Nepal (2023).
  4. Gestational Age-Specific Anthropometric Percentile Charts for Newborns – Journal of Kathmandu Medical College (2014).
  5. Prevalence of Perinatal Asphyxia in Neonates – Journal of Nepal Medical Association (2019).
  6. Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome – Journal of Nepal Medical Association (2023).
  7. Diagnosis of Achondroplasia at Birth – Journal of Nepal Medical Association (2020).
  8. Development and Evaluation of Community-Based Surveillance Methods for Injury-Related Deaths – International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2021).
  9. Pediatric Injuries in Nepal: Emergency Department Surveillance – Archives of Disease in Childhood (2021)

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Dr. Kusum Thapa

Dr. Kusum ThapaDr. Kusum Thapa is a highly esteemed Obstetrician and Gynecologist with over three decades of experience in maternal, newborn, and reproductive health, working both in Nepal and the United Kingdom. She is currently Chairperson Saptakoshi Hospital Private limited.

Dr. Thapa has made significant contributions to reducing maternal and newborn mortality through her work in policy advocacy, program design, and capacity building. She has led initiatives to promote innovative solutions such as task- shifting for abortion services, advanced distribution of misoprostol for postpartum hemorrhage prevention, and calcium supplementation to reduce pre-eclampsia. Additionally, she has developed and implemented numerous national strategies, protocols, and training manuals, including those addressing cervical cancer screening, obstetric fistula, gender-based violence, and postpartum family planning. 

Dr. Thapa is a member of the WHO Technical Working Group on Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) and serves on the Global PPH Steering Committee. Additionally, she is a visiting faculty member for the Oxford Global Surgery Course and holds leadership roles in regional health organizations, including as the President-Elect of the South Asian Federation of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (SAFOG). She was also the Principal Technical Advisor for USAID’s Momentum Country and Global Leadership Program at Jhpiego (Johns Hopkins University), where she provides strategic leadership and technical expertise to strengthen health systems in priority countries.

Her contributions have been recognized with prestigious awards, including accolades from the President of Nepal for her work in health services and research.

Publications

  1. Post-pregnancy family planning in Southeast Asia: Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Volume 94, 2024.
  2. Implementation of maternal and perinatal death surveillance in humanitarian settings: BMC Research in Practice, 2022.
  3. Should female community health volunteers facilitate responses to gender- based violence? Global Public Health, 2020.
  4. Postpartum Family Planning Service Coverage in Selected Referral Facilities of Nepal: J Nepal Med Assoc, 2020.
  5. Improving post-partum family planning services: BMC Health Services Research, 2020.
  6. Postpartum hemorrhage care bundles: Int Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2019.
  7. Integrating postpartum contraceptive counselling and IUD services: BMC Reproductive Health, 2019.
  8. Factors affecting postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device uptake: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 2019.
  9. Feasibility of an ergonomic baby wrap for kangaroo mother care: PLoS One, 2018.
  10. Institutionalizing postpartum family planning services: Int Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2018.
  11. FIGO postpartum intrauterine device initiative: Int Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2018.

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Dr. Sharad Raj Onta

Dr. Sharad Raj OntaDr. Sharad Raj Onta is a distinguished academic and public health professional with extensive experience in teaching, research, and health policy development. He holds an MBBS degree from the 1st Leningrad Medical Institute, Russia, a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the University of Dundee, UK, and a PhD from the Royal Danish School of Pharmacy, Copenhagen, Denmark. Currently, Dr. Onta serves as a Professor at the Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu, where he has taught and guided numerous students at various academic levels, including in the Master of Public Health (MPH) and PhD programs. His expertise spans international health, epidemiology, and public health, areas in which he has made significant contributions.

Dr. Onta is actively involved in several key positions in the public health sector. He is a Member of the Central Steering Committee for the FHEN Project at NPHF (Nepal Public Health Foundation) and serves as the Country Coordinator for the People's Health Movement Nepal. Additionally, he provides strategic guidance as an Advisor to the Policy Research Institute, Government of Nepal. His leadership extends to being an Executive Member and Immediate Past President of Physicians for Social Responsibility Nepal (PSRN), which is affiliated with the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW).

Throughout his career, Dr. Onta has contributed substantially to advancing maternal, neonatal, and child health in Nepal. He has played pivotal roles in formulating health policies and strategies for improving public health systems in Nepal. As a member of various academic and research committees, including the

Nepal Health Research Council and the National Health Policy Development Committee, he has worked on shaping policies that directly address health challenges faced by mothers, children, and vulnerable populations. Dr. Onta's influence is also evident in his past leadership roles, such as serving as the Executive Chief and Vice Chair of the Nepal HIV/AIDS and STI Control Board, where he contributed to strategies impacting maternal and child health services.

Dr. Onta’s work has been integral in strengthening public health infrastructure and policies aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes, particularly in the context of Nepal’s socio-economic and healthcare challenges. His dedication to improving public health, especially in vulnerable communities, continues to leave a lasting impact on health initiatives in Nepal.

Publications

  1. Komal Bhattarai, Sharad Onta, Aruna Uprety (ed).Mahilako Lagi Doctor Nabhayema (Nepali version of Where Women Have No Doctor). First edition 2001, phect-Nepal, Second edition 2002, Third edition 2011, RHEST and phect-Nepal, Kathmandu
  2. Sharad Onta.Reduce child mortality. In Millennium Development Goals: Monitoring reports of civil society Nepal. Environmental Journalist Forum, Kathmandu, 2004.
  3. Sharad Onta. Goal 4: Reducing Child Mortality. In Achieving Millennium Development Goals: Challenges for Nepal. Nepal Rastra Bank, Kathmandu 2006.
  4. Sharad Raj Onta, Kedar Baral. Health in Nepal: realities and challenges. Resource Centre for Primary Health Care, Kathmandu, 1995.
  5. Sharad Onta, L. M. Singh, Kedar Baral. Health in Nepal: realities and challenges. Resource Centre for Primary Health Care, Kathmandu, 1995.
  6. Sharad Onta, Chaunlagai Bishnu, Shrestha Binjwala, Subedi Narayan, Krettek Alexandra.
  7. Perception of users and providers on barriers to utilization of skilled birth attendants in mid- and far-western Nepal – a qualitative study. Global Health Action, Vol. 7, p. 1-9, 2014.
  8. Sharad Raj Onta, Bishnu Chaunlagai, Binjwala Shrestha, Max Petzold, Alexandra Krettek. Uterine Prolapse and its impact on quality of life in the Jhaukel-Duwakot Demographic Surveillance site, Bhaktapur, Nepal. Global Health Action 8, 2015.
  9. Binjwala Shrestha, Bhimsen Devkota, Badri Khanal, Sharad Onta, Max Petzold, Alexandra Krettek.
  10. Knowledge on Uterine Prolapse among married women of reproductive age. BMC International Health and Human Rights, 2013, 13:49.
  11. Binjwala Shrestha, Sharad Onta, Alexandra Krettek. Women's experience and healthcare-seeking practices in relation to uterine prolapse in a hill district of Nepal. BMC Women's Health, 2014.
  12. K. L. Shakya, N. Shrestha, P. Kisiju, S. R. Onta. Association of maternal factors with low birth weight in selected hospitals of Nepal. Journal of Nepal Health Research Council, Vol. 13 No. 2, May-Aug 2015.
  13. Rajani Pokharel, Geeta Bhattarai, Namuna Shrestha, Sharad Onta. Knowledge and utilization of family planning methods among people living with HIV in Kathmandu, Nepal. BMC Health Services Research, Volume 18, article number 836, 2018.

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Dr. Aruna Uprety

Dr. Aruna UpretyDr. Aruna Uprety is a renowned public health expert with over 35 years of experience, specializing in inclusive health services with a focus on women's health and development. She holds an M.A. in Women and Development from the Institute of Social Studies in The Netherlands and an M.D. from Kharkov State Medical Institute in Ukraine. Throughout her career, Dr. Uprety has contributed significantly to advancing healthcare in rural and underserved areas, particularly in the domains of Maternal Health (MH), Adolescent Health (AH), Reproductive Health (RH), Mental Health, and Nutrition. Her technical expertise spans a wide array of public health issues including gender equality, social inclusion, and shock- responsive health systems. Dr. Uprety has worked in several countries, including Nepal, Afghanistan, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, and Laos, collaborating with local governments, international organizations, and communities to improve health outcomes, particularly for marginalized groups.

Currently serving as the Executive Director at the Rural Health Education Service Trust (RHET) in Nepal, Dr. Uprety continues to lead initiatives aimed at enhancing health governance and services in rural regions. She has spearheaded programs focusing on the prevention and treatment of Pelvic Organ Prolapse, benefiting thousands of women in Nepal. Her leadership extends to projects that support girls' education, gender-based violence (GBV) awareness, and reproductive rights advocacy. Dr. Uprety’s advocacy efforts led to the successful policy amendments in Nepal, including the legalization of abortion rights and the recognition of uterine prolapse as a human rights issue by the Supreme Court. Additionally, her involvement in maternal and child health includes large-scale projects that provide education and healthcare support to vulnerable populations, demonstrating her continued commitment to improving health outcomes for women and children at both the grassroots and policy levels.

Publications

  1. Feasibility of using pessaries for treatment of pelvic organ prolapse in rural Nepal
  2. Women’s experiences and health care-seeking practices in relation to uterine prolapse in a hill district of Nepal
  3. Discusses challenges faced by Nepali women regarding maternal health, including uterine prolapse and lack of access to family planning services.
  4. Details Dr. Uprety’s involvement in creating ‘Health Actions for Women,’ a resource aimed at empowering women with knowledge about their health rights.
  5. Co-authored review on the gaps in maternal nutrition in Nepal and suggested priority interventions to address the issue.
  6. Discusses the importance of informed consent and refusal in maternity care, emphasizing the human rights aspect.
  7. Explores women’s experiences and health care-seeking behaviors related to uterine prolapse in Nepal.
  8. Maternal Health Status of Nepali Women: Stories from the Field
  9.  Collaborating to Write Health Actions for Women
  10. Identification of Gaps and Priority Interventions for Maternal Nutrition in Nepal: A Review
  11. Maternity Care with Human Rights: Informed Consent and Refusal
  12. Women’s Experiences and Health Care-Seeking Practices in Relation to Uterine Prolapse in Nepal

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Dr. Needa Shrestha

Dr. Needa ShresthaDr. Needa Shrestha is a licensed pediatrician with a diverse educational background and extensive professional experience. She earned her MBBS from

Z.H. Sikder Women’s Medical College, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh (2007), followed by a Master’s in Clinical Medicine (Pediatrics) from Jiamusi University, China (2014).

Currently serving at Paropakar Maternity and Children’s Hospital as a Pediatrician since 2019, Dr. Shrestha has held various clinical roles in leading institutions, including Kanti Children’s Hospital, Nidan Hospital, and Samjhana Laboratories and Polyclinic. She has also contributed to academic and public health initiatives, such as training and facilitating programs for neonatal and pediatric care and gender-based violence awareness.

Dr. Shrestha has published notable research, including studies on neonatal sepsis and congenital heart diseases, in peer-reviewed journals. She has also participated in numerous workshops and completed specialized trainings, including Pediatric Fundamental Critical Care Support and Advanced Neonatal and Pediatric Life Support.

An active contributor to public health, Dr. Shrestha has consulted on maternal and child health projects and led community-based initiatives, including newborn care training and CB-IMNCI programs.

Publications 

  1. “Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome: A Case Report” published in Journal of Nepal Paediatric Society, 2010.
  2. “The effect  of 7-Nitroindazole on  Calpain-1 and  Caspase-3 level in neuronal cells of Lithium Chloride/Pilocarpine induced recurrent convulsion model rats” published in Asian Academic Research Journal of Multidisciplinary, 2014.
  3. “Bacteriological profile of Neonatal sepsis in Neonatal Intermediate Care Unit of Central Paediatric Referral Hospital in Nepal” published in Journal of Nepal Health Research Council, 2015.
  4. “Spectrum of Congenital Heart Disease in Neonates admitted in an Intermediate Care Unit of a Tertiary Level Hospital” published in Journal of Nepal Paediatric Society, Vol 37, No 2 (2017).

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