Pusp Raj is a familiar face and popular name in Lautoka.
The former Lautoka City Council chief executive officer is renowned for his community work in Lautoka.
He also holds key position in several organisations in the Sugar City like being the senior vice-president of the Sugar Festival Committee and Lautoka Senior Citizens’ Foundation president.
For his many achievements he was awarded a Member of the Order of Fiji medal by the President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, during the Order of Fiji Investiture Ceremony at Government House in Suva last Friday.
“I always involve myself in community work. I do not expect to be rewarded. Hearing that I had been nominated brought tears to my eyes,” Mr Raj said.
His prior awards include the chief scout commendation in 1990, life governor of Apex Fiji International in 1991, 25th Anniversary of Independence medal in 1995, ambassador for peace under the Universal Peace Federation, Justice of Peace in 2001 and Commissioner of Oaths in 2012.
“I cannot live without serving the community. It is second nature to me, but I never expected to receive such a high category award,” Mr Raj said.