Kathmandu. The government has formed a new ministry focusing on science, technology and innovation. The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation has been established as per the Government of Nepal (Division of Work) Regulations, 2083 published in the Nepal Gazette on May 12.

The government’s decision to run the science and technology sector through a separate ministry is seen linking it with the long-term development strategy of the state. Currently, Prime Minister Balendra Shah has taken charge of the ministry.

The newly formed Ministry has been empowered to formulate policies, laws and standards related to science, technology and innovation. Likewise, the ministry will be responsible for scientific research, study and research related to space science and astronomy.

The government has formed the Ministry with the objective of institutionalizing research, research, invention, promotion and development of science and technology. As per the plan, the ministry will collect data related to science and technology, conduct surveys and set standards.

Similarly, the responsibility of establishing, managing and regulating the data system related to the quality and use of nuclear technology and radioactive materials has been given to the new ministry. This ministry will also look after the use, promotion, control and regulation of biological and nuclear technology.

The ministry’s jurisdiction also includes the study of the ozone layer, measurement of solar radiation and information dissemination, calibration and certification of scientific instruments, use of chemical substances and regulation.

The government has also given priority to the management of nuclear energy and nuclear materials. The Ministry will be responsible for the exploration, recovery and management of nuclear materials and unexplored resources and will also be responsible for the policy, law, standards, implementation and regulation related to nuclear energy.

Subjects related to Nepal Academy of Science and Technology, National Forensic Science Academy, planetarium, observatory and science museum will also come under the purview of this ministry.

Innovation, technology development and industrial modernization are also the top priorities of the Ministry. From the development, improvement and use of goods and services, processes, technology and designs, the Ministry has been given the responsibility to study, research and use the new concepts such as ‘Industry 4.0’ and ‘Industry 5.0’ in the industry and business sector.

Likewise, the Ministry has the authority to sign treaties, agreements, liaison and coordination with national and international organizations related to science and technology.

At a time when the science and research sector in Nepal has been suffering from budget crunch, policy ambiguity and the problem of the migration of skilled human resources, the targeted results in this sector are expected to be achieved with the formation of the new ministry.