Newly-appointed Health Minister Poudel Assumes Office, Vows to Prioritize Health Insurance and Cancer Prevention

Pradip Poudel, the newly-appointed Minister for Health and Population, assumed office today at the Ministry’s headquarters in Ramshahpath shortly after being sworn in by the President. Speaking to the media soon after taking charge, Minister Poudel outlined his commitment to enhancing health insurance coverage for all citizens and strengthening the integrated health system.

“I am here to work. My focus will be on consolidating the integrated health system, ensuring quality health services are delivered promptly,” Minister Poudel stated. He emphasized his determination to prioritize the control and prevention of cancer, which affects numerous Nepalis.

Born on March 27, 1975, in Shuklagandaki Municipality-8, Tanahun district, Pradip Poudel has a notable background in student activism, having been affiliated with the Nepal Students Union during the 1990 people’s movement for democracy restoration. He served as the president of the Free Students Union at Amrit Science Campus and later as the central president of the Nepal Students Union. Poudel holds a Master’s degree in Sociology and is a central committee member of the Nepali Congress. He was elected as a Member of the House of Representatives from Kathmandu constituency-5 in the 2022 parliamentary elections.

During the Second People’s Movement against the king’s direct rule in 2006/07, Minister Poudel was arrested and detained, reflecting his longstanding commitment to democratic reforms and social justice.