Kathmandu: Liladevi Gadtaula has made history by becoming the first woman Chief Secretary in Nepal's administrative history. The government promoted her to the position today, following her tenure as Acting Chief Secretary since July 15. Gadtaula, born in Terhathum district on 15 Bhadra 2023 BS, began her civil service career in 2052 BS as a section officer under the judicial service. She climbed the ranks, becoming Under Secretary in 2063 BS, Joint Secretary in 2070 BS, and Secretary in 2077 BS. Due to age limits, she will retire from service on August 31.

Chief Secretary Gadtaula, a firm believer in the adage that "good deeds will always be rewarded," attributes her appointment to her consistent performance in the civil service. "This government seems generous towards women, and the responsibility of Chief Secretary has been entrusted to someone from the judicial service, thanks to the government," she stated.

She emphasized that her promotion sends a strong message to civil servants that honest work will be recognized and rewarded. "If you do good, you will get good outcomes," she reiterated. Chief Secretary Gadtaula called for all civil servants to collaborate to enhance and streamline service delivery from the state to the people. She also expressed her commitment to advancing the civil service bill currently before parliament and to providing incentives and motivation for diligent employees.

A meeting of the Council of Ministers, where the appointment was confirmed, also saw the appointment of the Vice-Chairperson and members of the National Planning Commission (NPC). Prof. Dr. Shivaraj Adhikari of Palpa district was appointed NPC Vice-Chairperson. Adhikari is a professor of economics at Tribhuvan University.

Additionally, the cabinet meeting appointed RP Bichha, Dr. Ramesh Prasad Singh, Dr. Prakash Kumar Shrestha, Gita Kumari Poudel Adhikari, Dr. Jaya Bahadur Tandon, and Ganga Dutta Awasthi as members of the NPC.