Mahabir Pun Leads Nepal’s Innovation Ministry

Kathmandu, Nepal – Nepal has launched the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, a dedicated federal institution focused on advancing research, innovation, and digital transformation.

Established on May 13, 2026, the ministry was formed by separating science and technology functions from the former Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.

This change was part of a broader federal restructuring led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah, which reduced the cabinet from 22 to 18 ministries under the Nepal Government (Work Division) Regulations, 2083.

The ministry is led by Mahabir Pun, an independent lawmaker, social innovator, and founder of the Nepal Wireless Networking Project.

Renowned for advancing rural connectivity and technological innovation, Pun has long advocated for a dedicated institution to promote science, technology, research, and innovation in Nepal.

He became the ministry’s first minister in June 2026.Transition toward a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.

Government officials say its primary focus will be on accelerating digital transformation, supporting scientific research, promoting technological entrepreneurship, and encouraging the adoption of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.

The ministry’s jurisdiction covers a broad range of scientific and technological sectors, including national research and development programs, institutionalizing scientific discoveries, promoting high-tech industries, and modernizing domestic production through innovation and technology.

Innovation and digital technology:

The ministry also oversees strategic scientific functions related to nuclear and biological technologies. It is responsible for the exploration, recovery, management, and regulation of nuclear materials and waste, as well as for promoting scientific standards and safety measures.

Several key scientific institutions now fall under the ministry’s supervision, including:

* The Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST)
* Nepal Forensic Science Laboratory
* National observatories and research centers
* Science museums and public science institutions

These organizations are expected to play a key role in advancing research, scientific education, and technological progress nationwide.

Building the Ministry from the Ground Up

As a newly established institution, the ministry is currently focused on developing its organizational structure and long-term operations. Minister Pun has launched an Organization and Management (O&M) Survey to assess staffing, departmental roles, and administrative needs.

Technology and Innovation Act, which will provide the legal foundation for future policies, research initiatives, innovation programs, and technology governance mechanisms.

The ministry is also developing its official digital platforms. The ministry is developing digital platforms and policy frameworks to support startups, researchers, innovators, universities, and technology-based enterprises.

Science, Technology and Innovation is being viewed as a landmark step toward strengthening Nepal’s scientific capacity and global competitiveness. Supporters believe the ministry can help address challenges such as brain drain, limited research funding, and weak links between academia and industry.

By establishing a dedicated institution for science, technology, and innovation, Nepal aims to create an environment where researchers, entrepreneurs, students, and innovators can contribute more effectively to national development.

As the ministry begins its work under Mahabir Pun’s leadership, there are high expectations that it will help shape Nepal’s digital future and position the country to benefit from rapid global advances in science and technology.