Kathmandu: Newly appointed Minister for Health and Population Dr. Sudha Sharma assumed office on Sunday, announcing her first decision to provide psychological counseling to those injured during the recent Gen Z protest.
Speaking to the media after taking charge, Dr. Sharma pledged transparency in the procurement of medical supplies and vowed zero tolerance for corruption in the health sector. “The Gen Z protest was for good governance and an end to corruption. I hope I will not have to hear any complaints of corruption under my tenure,” she said.
The minister said mental health is among the government’s top priorities and revealed plans to coordinate with the Ministry of Finance to secure funding for free health insurance for families of those martyred in the protest. “This government belongs to the citizens, and performance alone will determine our evaluation,” she added.
Addressing concerns over nurses’ pay rates, Dr. Sharma said the issue would be resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding.
A former Health Secretary, Dr. Sharma is a specialist in gynecology and obstetrics and an experienced public health expert.