New programmes being introduced in science and technology sector: Minister Pun

Kathmandu: Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Mahabir Pun, has said that the trend of going abroad would be stopped gradually if an environment to make youths active is created in the country through innovation.

Responding to queries raised in the course of discussion on ‘Appropriation Bill, 2083’ in today’s meeting of the National Assembly, he shared that a separate ministry has been established after a long effort, and the budget in this sector is increasing.

Pun clarified that he was compelled to join politics after previous governments had given less importance to science and technology. One per cent of capital expenditure (Rs 4 billion) has been allocated for the ministry, he said, adding he has been urging the provinces and local levels to allocate one per cent of their capital expenditure in the sector of science and technology.

The Science and Technology Minister underlined that the ministry has been making preparations for the formulation of rules and laws, as well as conducting an organisational and management survey.

The Bill related to the National Forensic Lab is under consideration, and the budget for Nepal Academy of Science and Technology would be increased, he viewed.

The Minister said, “Investment in the science and technology sector should be increased for the country’s prosperity. Scientists and learned people who are abroad should be brought back to the country. We are working on it.”

RSS