The Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) has begun conducting research aligned with production and prosperity, focusing on province-specific potential. To facilitate this, NAST has established offices in all seven provinces, engaging experts to identify and explore key areas for research and innovation.
NAST Vice-Chancellor Dr. Dilip Subba stated that following the country’s transition to federalism, research efforts have been tailored to local characteristics. Offices have been set up in Dharan (Koshi), Bardibas (Madhesh), Bharatpur (Bagmati), Pokhara (Gandaki), Deukhuri Valley (Lumbini), Surkhet (Karnali), and Mahendranagar (Sudurpashchim), each staffed with experts and a small research team.
A total budget of NPR 200 million has been allocated for research and innovation across all seven provinces. Dr. Subba explained that Koshi Province will focus on research related to crops and fruits, while Madhesh will address Chure conservation, recognizing its critical role as a “lifeline” for the region’s sustainability.
Bagmati’s research will emphasize urban development with a clean environment, Gandaki will integrate mountain greenery with tourism promotion, Lumbini will prioritize traditional technology and skill preservation, Karnali will link information technology to economic growth, and Sudurpashchim will focus on the conservation and study of medicinal herbs.
Dr. Subba emphasized that after years of effort, research has now gained momentum, centering on production and economic growth. He acknowledged the limited human resources at NAST but highlighted that office establishments in the fiscal year 2080/81 laid the foundation for regional research. As of the current fiscal year, these efforts have gained significant traction.
He further stressed that without prioritizing investment in science and technology, achieving development and prosperity would be impossible. “Research takes time, and results are not immediate,” he noted, “but the long-term impact is substantial and vital for national progress.”
