What happened?
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 18 February 2025 to enhance bilateral cooperation in Science and Technology. The agreement, formalised in New Delhi, focuses on joint research, knowledge exchange, and capacity building in fields like biological sciences, nanotechnology, environmental technologies, and alternative energy. The MoU will facilitate scientific exchanges, collaborative research projects, and the sharing of research facilities between India and Nepal.
Why it matters to India:
The strengthened Science and Technology partnership with Nepal enhances India’s scientific diplomacy in the region, promoting cross-border collaboration in critical research areas. The agreement supports India’s goal of fostering innovation-driven growth while strengthening people-to-people and institutional ties with Nepal. Enhanced cooperation in areas like alternative energy and environmental technologies aligns with India’s broader sustainability and regional development goals.