Kathmandu – Nepal’s administrative system was once largely dominated by men, and it was rare to see women leading district-level administration. However, the situation has gradually changed in recent years, with more women taking on leadership roles in the government. One such example is Srijana Thapaliya, the Chief District Officer (CDO) of Sankhuwasabha District.

Thapaliya’s journey from a modest rural upbringing to becoming a district’s top administrative official reflects determination, continuous effort, and strong family support.

She was born in Syadul village of Benighat Rorang Rural Municipality–6 in Dhading District. Her childhood was spent in a simple rural environment, where she completed her education up to Grade 8 at a local school. Later, she passed her School Leaving Certificate (SLC) examination from Malekhu.

She then moved to Bharatpur for further studies and enrolled in Grade 11 at Saptagandaki Campus. During this period, her interest shifted toward the health sector. She completed her PCL Nursing from Birgunj Nursing Campus and worked in a hospital for two years after graduation.

Later, she completed her Bachelor of Nursing from the Nursing Campus in Maharajgunj and began teaching at the Institute of Medicine. At that time, it seemed her career would remain in the health sector.

A Career Turn by Chance

In 2013 (2070 BS), Thapaliya appeared for the civil service examination under Public Service Commission Nepal without extensive preparation. She had not even informed her family about it.

Surprisingly, she succeeded on her first attempt, which changed the direction of her life.

Initially, her goal had been to secure an officer-level position in the health service after completing her bachelor’s degree. However, the related vacancy announcement was later postponed. Encouraged by friends who were succeeding in the civil service examinations, she decided to try her luck.

The stability, prestige, and opportunity to serve the state also attracted her to the civil service. She recalls being inspired after seeing the respect given to a neighbor who had passed the officer-level examination.

At the time, she was working as a lecturer and earning a salary comparable to or sometimes even higher than an officer-level government job. However, the prestige and responsibility of public service drew her toward the administrative field.

Challenges of a Middle-Class Background

Growing up in a middle-class rural family meant that resources were limited compared to urban households. She remembers that while she had many dreams as a child, not all of them seemed achievable at the time.

“I didn’t have a very clear goal about what I would become when I was young,” she recalled. “But I always believed I needed to have a job.”

Balancing Marriage and Career

Thapaliya got married in 2011 (2068 BS). After marriage, balancing family life and career became challenging. According to her, women often face greater challenges in managing family responsibilities alongside professional commitments.

“For women, managing family responsibilities often comes before pursuing a career,” she said.

However, strong support from her parents and in-laws helped her continue her professional journey.

Leading District Administration

Today, Thapaliya leads the district administration of Sankhuwasabha District as its Chief District Officer. Her journey from a nursing student to a senior administrative official represents not only personal success but also the evolving role of women in Nepal’s public administration.

She said that her desire to honor her parents and achieve something meaningful in life motivated her to keep moving forward.

Thapaliya joined the civil service with a starting salary of NPR 18,900. During her tenure at the Department of Commerce, she introduced a strategic reform that made services more accessible for the public an initiative she still remembers with pride.

Women in Civil Service Leadership

According to Thapaliya, the number of women entering Nepal’s civil service has been increasing in recent years. However, she believes women should not seek opportunities solely on the basis of gender.

“No one is given a position just because they are a woman. Positions are given based on capability and qualification,” she said.

Once the Public Service Commission Nepal recommends a candidate, she believes they should focus on fulfilling their responsibilities rather than seeking special privileges.

She also stressed that women who pass the civil service examinations are already capable and should be trusted with leadership roles.

“Leadership grows when responsibilities are entrusted with confidence,” she said.

Inspiration for Young Women

Thapaliya believes balancing family and professional life is essential for long-term success. According to her, if someone cannot manage family responsibilities effectively, it can also affect their professional life.

She says her family’s support despite physical distance due to her responsibilities has helped her maintain balance between personal and professional life.

As Chief District Officer, Thapaliya continues to serve the people of Sankhuwasabha, and her journey has become an inspiration for many young women aspiring to build careers in public service.