KATHMANDU: Newly appointed Health and Population Minister Nisha Mehta, a professional nurse by training, has taken office in the Balendra Shah-led federal government. Mehta, 39, hails from Inaruwa and entered politics while actively contributing to health services in Nepal.
Mehta has been affiliated with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) since its founding, initially as a general member. In the previous election, she was listed in the proportional representation quota but did not become a member of parliament. This time, she secured a seat in the House of Representatives from the Madheshi cluster.
Born and raised in Inaruwa, Mehta pursued her postgraduate degree in Nursing from a university in Gwalior, India. She returned to Nepal and worked at Birat Teaching Hospital, gaining firsthand experience in health service delivery, management challenges, and systemic inequalities. She resigned from her hospital post only after receiving her parliamentary certificate.
Mehta’s professional background has helped her understand the gaps in healthcare access and service management. She has also contributed significantly to community programs as the Administration Secretary of Nepal Police Wives Association, Koshi Province, overseeing health camps and initiatives for women and children. Her work demonstrated leadership, organizational skills, and community engagement.
Her husband, Dr. Saroj Singh, is Chief of Koshi Province Police Hospital and a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). Both acknowledge the importance of family support in her political journey. Singh notes that Mehta has long been committed to social service, particularly focusing on issues concerning Madheshi women and children.
Receiving her parliamentary certificate, Mehta became emotional, describing her election not merely as an achievement but as a great responsibility on her shoulders. She expressed gratitude to her family, supporters, and the public, reflecting her humble and collective approach to politics.
As minister, Mehta has pledged to raise timely issues in parliament, including the challenges faced by police personnel, farmers’ concerns, Madheshi women’s rights, and systemic problems in the health sector.
Despite being a new face in federal politics, Mehta brings a strong foundation of health service, social work, and organizational experience. Her role is expected to go beyond mere representation, focusing on active policy debates, amplifying public voices, and implementing effective interventions.
From the local environment of Inaruwa, Sunsari, Nisha Mehta’s political journey has progressed steadily, shaped by resilience, commitment to her party, and a focus on service-oriented leadership.
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