About
Empowering Lives, Transforming Futures
Indira Rana Magar is a trailblazing social leader and human rights advocate dedicated to uplifting marginalised communities in Nepal. With a life rooted in empathy, resilience, and service, she has become a powerful voice for children, women, and vulnerable families across the country.
As the founder of Prisoners Assistance Nepal, she has devoted decades to protecting and supporting children whose parents are incarcerated. Through education, shelter, and community programmes, her work has transformed the lives of hundreds of children who once faced stigma and uncertainty.
Her commitment to social justice has also extended into national leadership. After earning strong public support and winning election with a significant number of votes, she now serves as the Deputy Speaker of the Federal Parliament of Nepal, bringing the voices of marginalised communities into national decision-making.
Through initiatives such as Junkiri School and the Aama Ko Khana community food programme, Indira Rana Magar continues to champion education, dignity, and opportunity for those who need it most. Her journey reflects a lifelong commitment to building a society where every child and every community can thrive.
Stories of Impact
From ideas to action: making change happen
Indira Rana Magar founded Prisoners Assistance Nepal to protect children whose parents are incarcerated. The organisation provides shelter, education, and care so that children can grow up outside prison walls with dignity and opportunity.
As Deputy Speaker, Indira Rana Magar represents the voices of marginalized communities at the national level. She works to create policies that protect children, empower women, and support vulnerable families.
Believing that every child carries a unique light within them, Indira Rana Magar established Junkiri School to nurture the potential of children from vulnerable backgrounds. Today, Junkiri Schools in Sankhu and Jhapa provide a safe and supportive learning environment where children can discover their talents, gain confidence, and build brighter futures.
She has also supported programmes to help women learn skills, earn income, and become independent. Many women now run small businesses and support their families thanks to her guidance and training programmes.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Indira Rana Magar launched Aama Ko Khana, a community initiative providing warm meals to people living on the streets and vulnerable families. At the height of the crisis, the programme served around 800 meals every day, ensuring that those most in need did not go hungry.
Indira Rana Magar speaks out for children who are often forgotten. She works with the government and organisations to protect children’s rights and make sure they have education, safety, and opportunities for a better life.
Timeline
Key milestones and achievements of indira rana
1984–2000
Teacher & Social Worker
Started her career teaching science and mathematics in rural schools, then worked closely with prisoners and their families in Kathmandu Valley, understanding social challenges and advocating for children affected by incarceration.
2000
Founder of PA Nepal
Established Prisoners Assistance Nepal to support prisoners, provide education and residential care for their children, and promote prison reform across Nepal.
2005–2017
Global Recognition
Honored as an Ashoka Fellow for social entrepreneurship, received the World’s Children’s Prize for defending children’s rights, and named one of BBC’s 100 Women, highlighting her influence on social justice worldwide.
2019–2020
Feeding with Compassion (Aama Ko Khana)
Led COVID-19 relief efforts through PA Nepal’s Food for Hunger Campaign, reaching over 500,000 vulnerable people, and was recognized with the South Asian Peace Award for her contributions to human rights and peacebuilding.
2022–2026
Political Leadership
Elected to Nepal’s Federal Parliament in 2022, she became Deputy Speaker in 2023 and won her constituency (Jhapa-2) with over 60,000 votes in 2026, demonstrating strong public trust and leadership.
Awards & Recognition
BBC 100 Most Influential Women (2017)
Named among the world’s most influential women for her powerful work advocating for prisoners and their children.
World’s Children’s Prize Honorary Award (2014)
One of the world’s most respected awards for children’s rights,
honouring her commitment to ensuring a better future for children
living in prisons.
THE ONE International Humanitarian Award (Runner-Up, 2022)
Global recognition for outstanding humanitarian leadership and social impact.
Recognition from Boston City Council, USA
The Boston City Council recognised Indira Rana Magar for her outstanding humanitarian work and her advocacy for prisoners and children affected by incarceration.
Official Citation – State of Maryland, USA
Indira Rana Magar received a Special Official Citation from the State of Maryland, presented by Carl Jackson, in recognition of her lifelong humanitarian work and dedication to supporting vulnerable children and communities in Nepal.
This honour acknowledges her global impact in advocating for the rights and dignity of prisoners and their families.
Thoughts That Inspire
