Innovation Ministry begins work after appointment of leadership

Kathmandu: The newly established Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation has begun institutional and policy-related work after the appointment of its leadership.

The ministry was created under the government’s latest division of responsibilities by separating the science and technology portfolio from the former Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.

Independent lawmaker Mahabir Pun assumed office as Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation on Tuesday, while Pramila Bajracharya of the Engineering Services was recently appointed as the ministry’s secretary.

Secretary Bajracharya said the ministry has started operating from the premises of the former Ministry of Youth and Sports in Singha Durbar. She said preparations are underway to build the ministry’s institutional structure, with Minister Pun deciding to conduct an Organisation and Management Survey as the ministry begins operations from scratch.

According to her, a template for the ministry’s website has already been prepared and submitted to the Department of Information Technology. Information is expected to be uploaded to the website within 72 hours.

Currently, the ministry has 24 staff members, with plans to increase the workforce once the new organisational structure is finalised. Minister Pun has also shifted to Singha Durbar and will reside in the ministry building.