London: Non-resident Nepali businessman and social worker Sujan Katwal has been awarded the prestigious MBE medal by the British government. Katwal was awarded the ‘Member of the Order of the British Empire’ (MBE) in the list of awards announced on the occasion of the British monarch’s birthday.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Katwal expressed his happiness upon receiving the honor, dedicating it to his team, family, and community who inspired him to serve society. Katwal was recognized for his significant contributions to the community through social service, including providing free food to more than 250,000 people during the COVID-19 pandemic and engaging in various other community welfare activities.
Katwal had also been listed among the 100 influential people in Britain a few months ago. The MBE award, established by King George V in 1917, is presented by the Royal Palace to individuals who have made a lasting impact on society. Previously, notable recipients of the MBE include record climber and former Gurkha army personnel Hari Budhamagar last year and mountaineer Nirmal Purja in 2018.
Katwal operates the Panas Gorkha Restaurant in South London, UK, and is actively involved in social service through the Panas Helping Hands Charity. Originally from Biratnagar, Nepal, Katwal moved to the UK in 1998.