Overview

Kulman Ghising (कुलमान घिसिङ) is a renowned Nepali electrical engineer, energy reformer, and the Managing Director (MD) of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). He is widely celebrated as the man who ended Nepal’s long-standing electricity load-shedding (power cuts) problem, earning him national hero status. His visionary leadership transformed NEA from a loss-making organization into one of Nepal’s most profitable public enterprises.

Key Facts at a Glance

Full Name: Kulman Ghising

Native Name: कुलमान घिसिङ

Date of Birth: April 25, 1970

Place of Birth: Bethan Village, Ramechhap District, Nepal

Nationality: Nepali

Profession: Electrical Engineer, Energy Executive

Education:

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering – Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering (IOE), Tribhuvan University

Master’s in Power Systems Engineering – Pulchowk Campus, IOE, Tribhuvan University

Current Position: Managing Director, Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA)

Famous For: Ending load-shedding and reforming Nepal’s power sector

Early Life and Education

Kulman Ghising was born in a rural village of Bethan in Ramechhap District, Nepal. Growing up in a modest family, he witnessed firsthand the struggles caused by lack of electricity, which later inspired his career path. Despite economic hardship, he excelled in academics and earned a scholarship to study engineering at Pulchowk Campus, Nepal’s top engineering institution.

He completed both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical and power systems engineering, showing deep interest in energy distribution and grid management.

Professional Career
Early Years

Kulman began his career at the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) soon after graduation.

He worked on several hydropower and transmission line projects, including the Kulekhani Hydropower Project, Trishuli, and Chilime Hydropower.

Over time, he gained extensive technical and managerial expertise in power generation, transmission, and load distribution systems.

Rise to Prominence
1. Appointment as NEA Managing Director (2016)

In September 2016, Kulman Ghising was appointed Managing Director (MD) of the Nepal Electricity Authority by the Government of Nepal. At that time, Nepal was suffering from up to 18 hours of daily load-shedding.

Within a few months, Kulman and his team implemented a revolutionary load management plan that completely eliminated power cuts in the Kathmandu Valley and, within a year, across the country.

Major Achievements and Reforms
1. Ending Load-Shedding

Before Ghising’s leadership, Nepal faced up to 14–18 hours of daily power outage.

He discovered that the root cause was not lack of generation but unequal and inefficient power distribution, where certain sectors (industries, VIP zones) received uninterrupted supply while others suffered blackouts.

By introducing a scientific power rationing system, optimizing hydropower operation, and controlling leakage and overuse, he managed to end load-shedding by 2017.

This achievement made him one of Nepal’s most respected public figures.

2. Financial Reform of NEA

When he took office, NEA was in deep financial loss (around NPR 8 billion).

Within three years, he turned it into a profitable institution, reporting over NPR 11 billion profit in 2019.

He focused on cost reduction, improved billing efficiency, and reduced electricity leakage from 25% to below 15%.

3. Promotion of Renewable and Domestic Hydropower

Accelerated construction of domestic hydropower projects like Upper Tamakoshi, Kulekhani III, and Chameliya.

Encouraged private sector participation and investment in hydropower generation.

Promoted cross-border electricity trade with India, helping Nepal export surplus energy during monsoon seasons.

4. Electrification and Modernization

Launched campaigns for rural electrification and expansion of the national grid to remote areas.

Advocated for the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and the development of charging infrastructure.

Initiated smart metering systems and digitalization of NEA services.

Challenges and Temporary Exit

In August 2020, after completing his four-year term, Ghising was replaced by Hitendra Dev Shakya, which triggered widespread public criticism and social media outrage. Citizens viewed his removal as a political move that undermined merit-based leadership.

However, due to massive public support and petitions, the government reappointed Kulman Ghising as NEA Managing Director in August 2021. His return was celebrated nationwide.

Current Initiatives (2021–Present)

Focus on energy export to India and Bangladesh.

Working to make Nepal a regional energy hub in South Asia.

Promoting clean and renewable energy projects to achieve zero load-shedding and carbon neutrality goals.

Expanding EV charging networks, smart grids, and energy storage systems.

Strengthening cross-border transmission lines like Dhalkebar–Muzaffarpur.

Awards and Recognition

National Civil Service Award, Government of Nepal

Manager of the Year, Management Association of Nepal (MAN)

Public Service Excellence Award, Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI)

Honored by numerous local governments, civil societies, and universities

Personal Traits and Leadership Style

Known for his discipline, humility, and integrity.

Lives a simple life and avoids political interference.

Believes in “work first, credit later” philosophy.

A hands-on leader, often seen working late nights during crises or power restoration missions.

Legacy and Impact

Kulman Ghising has become a symbol of good governance, transparency, and accountability in Nepal. His leadership not only lit up the nation but also inspired a new generation of Nepali youth to believe in competent and ethical public service.

Trivia and Cultural Notes

Kulman’s name has become synonymous with hope and electricity reform.

Many Nepali songs, documentaries, and memes celebrate his contribution.

Known affectionately as “The Man Who Brought Light to Nepal.”

Conclusion

Kulman Ghising’s career is a landmark story of vision, integrity, and transformation. From humble beginnings in Ramechhap to leading one of the nation’s most crucial institutions, his legacy continues to shine—both literally and figuratively. His reforms not only ended darkness in homes but also illuminated the path toward a more transparent, efficient, and energy-secure Nepal.