The award is given by the Central government every year in 22 languages.
Mr Jha, a 1967 batch IAS official who retired as member, CAT in 2006 has authored over two dozen books, mostly in Maithili.
Six poets, five short story writers and three critics were also selected for the coveted award, carrying a cash prize of Rs. 50,000 and an engraved copper plaque, which will be given away at a special function on February 17 next year.
Another prominent winner is Hindi novelist Govind Mishra, who got the award for his novel, ‘Kohre Mein Kaid Rang.’
Mantreshwar Jha
Topped in all University Examination from Intermediate to Post Graduate levels during 1960-64. Taught as Lecturer in Political Science in Bihar Patna, and Magadh Universities during 1964-67. Joined Indian Administrative Service in July 1967 and was placed in the home State cadre of Bihar. Served as Sub Divisional Officer at Nawadah, Disrict Magistrate at Begusarai (Barauni) and Singhbhum (Chaibasa) and Jamshedpur) during 1972-1977.Among other assignments also worked as Secretary, Planning Board, Secretary, Planning and Development and Secretary, Personnel and Administrative Reforms during 1979-1984. In addition served as Commissioner of Labour, I.G. of Prisons, MD, Bihar State Financial Corporation. He also worked as Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Govt. of Bihar, 1984-85.
Was Joint Secretary , Banking Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India during 1985-90. On reversion from Govt. of India, was posted as Chairman and Managing Director, Bihar State Electronics Development Corporation (90-94).
Subsequently, worked as Executive Director (Vig. and Security) in BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electrical Corporation Ltd.) during 1994-2000.
He served as Managing Director and Administrator in Bihar State Co-operative Bank and Bihar State Co-operative Marketing Union during 2000-01.
Was promoted in the rank of Secretary, Govt. of India and posted as Principal Advisor, Planning Commission in Nov., 2001 from which post took retirement in September, 2003 and joined as Member(A), CAT at Patna.